California Exodus: A Native’s Account of Leaving Over Education and Cultural Policies

21 February 2026 Opinion

LONG BEACH, Calif. — In recent years, California has witnessed a notable outflow of residents, particularly young professionals and families, seeking opportunities and environments elsewhere. Among them is a native who recently shared a candid account of why returning to the Golden State is no longer an option. The individual, who wished to remain anonymous, pointed to Governor Gavin Newsom’s progressive policies, especially those affecting children’s education and welfare, as primary motivators for their permanent move.

California’s approach to sex education has evolved significantly under the current administration, with mandatory inclusion of LGBTQ topics becoming a statewide requirement. This shift has sparked debate among parents and educators alike. The resident expressed concern over these mandates, describing them as intrusive and misaligned with their values. Moreover, the individual highlighted fears around what they referred to as “secret gender transitions” for minors, a topic that has gained national attention and stirred controversy in various states.

These cultural and educational policies coincide with broader economic and social challenges facing California. The state currently holds the highest unemployment rate in the nation, complicating job prospects for recent graduates and professionals. Housing affordability remains a critical issue, with monthly rents for modest apartments exceeding $2,000, making long-term residency financially daunting for many.

Experts have noted that California’s labor market struggles and housing crisis contribute heavily to the migration trend. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, California’s unemployment rate remains above the national average, underscoring the difficulty residents face in securing stable employment.

Beyond economics, the cultural climate plays a significant role. The resident described California’s policies as emblematic of a broader “woke” agenda that, in their view, undermines traditional family values and parental rights. This sentiment resonates with a segment of the population concerned about the direction of public education and state governance.

While the state government defends its policies as progressive steps toward inclusivity and protection of vulnerable youth, critics argue that such measures overreach and alienate families. The debate extends into legislative arenas and courtrooms, reflecting a national conversation about education, identity, and parental authority.

For those considering relocation, the resident’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the intersection of policy, culture, and quality of life. The decision to leave California, once seen as a land of opportunity, is now influenced by complex factors including economic viability and ideological alignment.

As families weigh their options, resources such as the California Department of Education provide official information on curriculum standards, while the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers data on housing assistance and affordability challenges within the state.

This personal account adds to the growing narrative of Californians seeking new beginnings elsewhere, driven by a desire for environments that better reflect their values and aspirations. Whether this trend will prompt policy reconsiderations or continue unabated remains to be seen, but for many, the choice to leave is already a defining moment in their lives.

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Written By
Jordan Ellis covers national policy, government agencies and the real-world impact of federal decisions on everyday life. At TRN, Jordan focuses on stories that connect Washington headlines to paychecks, public services and local communities.
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