Subject: Re: o/t, retail in America, WMT,
Opinions may vary but CA pales in comparison to many states imo. Look at the fine state of NC for example, my friends of all affiliations in Raleigh & Charlotte are quite pleased. Exemplar it IS possible to strike that right balance- pro govt, pro business and pro citizen. Per Gemini:

“Surplus Details: The $3.3 billion surplus was achieved as the state collected $34.6 billion against $31.3 billion in expenditures.

Revenue Drivers: The surplus was fueled by stronger-than-expected corporate profits, personal income taxes, and, as noted in this article by the Carolina Journal, a resilient consumer.

Tax Reductions: As of January 1, 2026, the state personal income tax rate dropped to 3.99% (from 4.25% in 2025).

Corporate Taxes: The corporate income tax rate is scheduled to be reduced to 2% and completely eliminated by 2030.”