Paul Kiernan, “The Push for 875,000 People to Help Get California Billionaire Tax on the Ballot” (WSJ, March 1, 2026):

California’s proposed billionaire tax has rattled its wealthiest residents and spurred fears the state could lose some of its most valuable taxpayers. It has divided Democratic leaders and sparked debate, admiration and derision around the country. It isn’t even on the ballot yet. 

First, the union behind the proposal must convince 875,000 registered voters to sign a petition to get on ballots in November. Then, it has to convince a majority of the state’s voters to pass it and impose a one-time 5% wealth tax on residents with net worth above $1 billion. 

To clear the initial step, organizers have recruited nearly 5,100 volunteers and an undisclosed number of paid petition circulators to collect signatures virtually anywhere people gather. The union approved $25 million in initial funding for the billionaire tax and two unrelated ballot pushes in the fall, and it is planning more rallies and an advertising campaign.