Rich Zeoli hit the nail on the head when he talked about California’s manufacturing mess. Sure, the Golden State still has factories, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. The real question is why California isn’t doing way better with all its natural advantages.
California does lead the nation in manufacturing jobs with over 1.3 million workers. The state also produces nearly $395 billion worth of goods each year. But here’s the kicker – California should be absolutely crushing every other state, not just barely staying on top.
The problem is simple: liberal policies are killing California’s potential. High taxes, crazy regulations, and anti-business attitudes are driving companies away every single day. Texas and Florida are eating California’s lunch because they actually welcome businesses.
Look at the numbers and you’ll see the warning signs everywhere. Manufacturing employment has been stuck around 1.2 million for months. Meanwhile, red states are growing their manufacturing base while California treads water.
California’s government keeps piling on more rules and higher costs. Energy prices are through the roof thanks to green energy mandates. Workers can’t afford to live near their jobs because of housing costs.
Smart companies are already moving operations to states that actually want them. Why would any business owner choose California’s headaches when they can set up shop in Texas or Tennessee? It’s a no-brainer for anyone who wants to make money.
The data shows California manufacturing is barely growing while costs keep climbing. Commodity prices are rising faster than production can keep up. Supply chains are getting slower, not faster, which hurts competitiveness.
California could be the manufacturing powerhouse of America if it had leaders who understood business. Instead, Sacramento keeps choosing feel-good policies over jobs and prosperity. That’s why Rich Zeoli is right to call out this mess.
