People like Joe Rogan have led a conservative migration drive to Texas, which is now beginning to unravel.
The Daily Mail reports that more and more influencers, comedians, and media figures who used to live in California are saying they wish they had not moved to Austin, as they believe it lacks the energy and infrastructure they left behind in California.
Tim Dillon, a comedian and one of the first Rogan affiliates to relocate in 2020, has since left Texas, calling Austin "a horrible city without a soul." Dillon said in interviews that the community had poor infrastructure, a lack of restaurants, and insufficient entertainment options. He said, "There is zero talent here in any capacity."
Blaire White, a transgender conservative YouTube star who moved to Austin during the height of California’s COVID-19 restrictions, announced this week she’s heading back to her home state. In a YouTube video, she said, "There are a lot of problems with California," but she wants to be someone who helps fix them. I no longer want to run away from problems.
Shane Gillis, another Rogan employee, shared his displeasure and discussed how he lost electricity for three days in the hot Texas weather, dealing with bugs and infrastructure issues.
Brendan Schaub, another former comedian from Los Angeles, said on his podcast that he misses his LA neighborhood very much and that moving to Austin left him "heartbroken."
People outside the entertainment business are also pulling back. Nara and Lucky Blue Smith, a couple of influencers, initially moved to Dallas for a quieter life. Still, they recently relocated to Connecticut to be closer to New York's thriving work market and amenities.
Mike Cernovich, a conservative commentator, also did not hold back. He called Austin a "total dump" and made fun of its overhyped reputation.
Even though Texas has lower taxes and fewer regulations, these stars are finding that it does not always offer the same lifestyle or culture they loved in California. This has prompted many of them to reconsider the actual cost of leaving the Golden State.
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