1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

California is the fifth-largest economy in the world, yet we send far more in federal taxes than we receive in return. Our wealth subsidizes states that oppose our values, while we face underfunded infrastructure, worsening climate crises, and federal obstruction. Washington’s dysfunction is no longer just frustrating—it is actively harming our ability to govern in the best interests of Californians. We lead in technology, entertainment, agriculture, and clean energy, yet the federal government continues to block policies that align with our needs. We could implement universal healthcare, enforce stronger climate protections, and reform immigration policies, but federal control holds us back. Instead of progress, we see environmental rollbacks, attacks on reproductive rights, and refusal to enact meaningful gun reform. We should not be forced to abide by policies dictated by states that do not share our vision for the future. California already operates as an independent global force. We have direct trade agreements with major economies, a booming tech sector, and access to the Pacific. If independent, we could negotiate trade agreements that benefit us directly, reinvest in our infrastructure, and ensure that our policies reflect the needs of our people. This is not about rebellion; it is about self-determination. I urge you to begin discussions on a legal, peaceful pathway to independence. The future of California should be decided by Californians—not by a dysfunctional federal system that does not serve us.