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Tech Leaders Battle California's Ultra-Wealthy Tax Proposal

2/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Sergey Brin, Alphabet executive, leads Building a Better California to push three ballot measures challenging California's 5% ultra-wealthy tax.
The group has raised $35 million to support these measures, which seek to ban retroactive taxes and audit new funding programs.
Brin and other tech leaders advocate the changes.
Governor Gavin Newsom opposes the tax.
Senator Bernie Sanders supports it, highlighting the growing wealth disparity in the state.

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Story summary

Sergey Brin, Alphabet executive, leads Building a Better California to push three ballot measures challenging California's 5% ultra-wealthy tax.
The group has raised $35 million to support these measures, which seek to ban retroactive taxes and audit new funding programs.
Brin and other tech leaders advocate the changes.
Governor Gavin Newsom opposes the tax.
Senator Bernie Sanders supports it, highlighting the growing wealth disparity in the state.