Bernie Sanders rails against billionaire ‘greed’ amid California tax battle

The Guardian - World NewsEN 4 min read 100% complete by Lauren Gambino in Los AngelesFebruary 19, 2026 at 07:17 AM

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long article 4 min

Bernie Sanders delivered a speech in Los Angeles on Wednesday, urging California voters to support a proposed wealth tax on the state's billionaires. He criticized the "greed" and "arrogance" of the ultra-wealthy, arguing they are detached from American society. The proposed tax, spearheaded by the SEIU-UHW, would impose a one-time 5% tax on residents with over $1 billion in assets. The aim is to offset federal healthcare cuts and fund public education and food assistance programs. Organizers are collecting signatures to get the California Billionaire Tax Act on the ballot in November. The proposal has sparked debate, with supporters arguing it ensures billionaires "pay their fair share" and critics expressing concerns about its impact.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Wiltern Theater 30% Vermont 30% Suzanne Jimenez 40% Los Angeles 50% United States 60% California Billionaire Tax Act 60% Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW) ×270% California ×780% Bernie Sanders ×690%

Keywords

billionaires 100% bernie sanders 90% wealth tax 90% economic inequality 80% california 70% tax battle 60% greed 50% oligarchy 50% ruling class 40%

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Negative

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The Guardian - World News

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90%

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billionaires bernie sanders wealth tax economic inequality california tax battle greed oligarchy ruling class

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