Union Chief Takes On Newsom Over Billionaire Tax as 2028 Buzz Grows

SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West president Dave Regan condemns Gov. Gavin Newsom in a rare interview for opposing California's proposed one-time 5% tax on fortunes above $1 billion, arguing Newsom panders to the billionaire class as he contemplates a 2028 presidential bid. Regan warns that such deference could fuel Trumpism if Democrats cater to the wealthy. The measure has qualified for the November ballot but could be withdrawn; Newsom has rejected the plan as poorly designed and floated a 2% legislative option that supporters rejected. Billionaire donors, including Sergey Brin, are funding efforts to defeat the measure, while supporters say the tax would fund healthcare and offset federal cuts.