San Francisco's Pro-Billionaire March Attracts Minimal Turnout Amid Wealth Tax Controversy
A demonstration in support of California's billionaire class failed to generate significant attendance on Saturday, with approximately three dozen participants showing up to voice opposition to the proposed state wealth tax legislation.
According to local reports, the event drew roughly 36 attendees, accompanied by about a dozen satirical counter-protesters. Event organizer Derik Kauffman, founder of AI startup RunRL, had anticipated modest turnout, predicting "a few dozen" participants prior to the march.
Despite the limited physical attendance, the "March for Billionaires" concept generated substantial engagement across social media platforms. Media coverage at the event reportedly nearly matched the number of demonstrators, with participants displaying signs bearing messages such as "We ❤️ You Jeffrey Bezos" and "It's very difficult to write a nuanced argument on a sign."
The demonstration was organized in response to the Billionaire Tax Act, a proposed California ballot measure that would impose a one-time 5% levy on the total wealth of state residents with net worth exceeding $1 billion. Governor Gavin Newsom has indicated he would veto the measure if it passes.
Kauffman, who is not himself a billionaire, stated his position on state spending priorities: "California is, I believe, the only state to give health insurance to people who come into the country illegally. I think we probably should not be providing that." It should be noted that fourteen states currently offer healthcare coverage to undocumented immigrants.
Sources:
