CEO of Major Retailer Vows To Avoid California Due To Democrat Policies
Bed Bath & Beyond CEO Marcus Lemonis announced the company will not open any retail stores in California. He cited the state’s challenging business environment as the reason, calling it overregulated, expensive, and risky.
Lemonis stated this was a business decision, not a political one. He argued that high taxes, fees, wages, and endless regulations strangle growth and make it difficult to sustain operations.
The CEO claimed the state’s budget surplus is built on the backs of overtaxed citizens and squeezed businesses. He said the company’s responsibility is to its customers and shareholders.
Instead of physical stores, Bed Bath & Beyond will serve Californians through its e-commerce website. Lemonis promised 24-48 hour delivery, often same-day, without the inflated costs of a physical presence.
He concluded that businesses deserve a chance to succeed and customers deserve fair prices. He believes California’s system fails to provide this.
This decision could impact Governor Gavin Newsom, a potential 2028 presidential contender. It adds to existing pressure from the Trump administration over the state’s sanctuary policies.
The tension was highlighted when armed Border Patrol agents appeared outside an anti-Trump rally hosted by Newsom in Los Angeles. Agents made at least one arrest, with the Chief stating they were there to make the city “a safer place.” Newsom’s office responded defiantly, refusing to be intimidated by former President Trump.
