California is once again at the center of a political storm, as state politicians are pushing forward a controversial bill that would impose a new “internet tax” to fund media outlets across the state. According to Carl DeMaio, a prominent political commentator and the chairman of Reform California, this move is nothing short of an attempt to prop up failing liberal news outlets using taxpayer dollars. DeMaio shared his thoughts in a recent video on his YouTube channel, where he strongly criticized the proposed legislation.
A Dubious Law Targeting Taxpayers
DeMaio explained that the bill in question, Assembly Bill 886, was introduced by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks and aims to impose an internet tax on major technology companies like Facebook, Google, and Twitter. The funds generated from this tax would then be funneled to local newspapers and media outlets that have been struggling financially. DeMaio argues that this is a clear attempt to use public money to sustain media organizations that have lost credibility and viewership due to their biased reporting.
The Decline of Liberal Media Outlets
According to DeMaio, the decline in revenue and viewership for these media outlets is not just a result of changing technology but also a direct consequence of their biased coverage. He claims that these outlets have alienated consumers by pushing a liberal agenda and failing to provide balanced reporting. “The real driver is the liberal coverage that has lost the trust and confidence of consumers,” DeMaio stated, emphasizing that many people have turned away from traditional news sources in search of more reliable information.
The Proposed Internet Tax: A Bailout for Media?
DeMaio describes Assembly Bill 886 as a bailout for these struggling media outlets. The bill proposes that tech giants should be taxed for allowing the sharing of news stories without compensating local papers or news outlets. The funds collected would then be redistributed to these media companies, effectively subsidizing their operations with taxpayer money. DeMaio sees this as a blatant attempt by liberal politicians to maintain their influence over the media landscape in California.
The Potential Impact on Consumers
One of the key concerns DeMaio raises is the impact this tax could have on consumers. He warns that while the bill targets tech companies, the cost will inevitably be passed on to consumers. “Google, Facebook, and Twitter don’t just have a charitable giving program – they’re going to have to figure out how to charge different rates, monetize, and sell your personal information,” DeMaio cautioned. He predicts that this will lead to increased costs for users and further erode trust in both the media and the tech industry.
A Backdoor Deal with Tech Giants?
DeMaio also highlighted the ongoing negotiations between tech companies and California legislators. He suggests that these discussions have led to a “blood money payout,” where tech companies have agreed to contribute $172.5 million, with an additional $70 million coming from state taxpayers. DeMaio is particularly outraged that taxpayer money, which could be used for essential public services like fixing potholes, is instead being diverted to support what he calls “left-wing propaganda.”
The Irony of AI Funding
Adding another layer of irony, DeMaio pointed out that a portion of the funds from this deal – $40 million – is earmarked for an AI Innovation Accelerator Program. This program would research how to use artificial intelligence to replace human journalists. DeMaio finds it laughable that journalists, who are supporting this bill, may eventually be replaced by AI. “This has never been about protecting jobs of journalists—it’s been about pumping out propaganda,” DeMaio asserted, criticizing the shortsightedness of those who support the legislation.
A Call to Action
Throughout the video, DeMaio repeatedly calls on viewers to take action against Assembly Bill 886. He urges Californians to visit the Reform California website, contribute to the cause, and spread the word about what he describes as a “corrupt giveaway” of taxpayer money. DeMaio believes that only through collective action can Californians push back against what he sees as a dangerous encroachment on both their wallets and their freedom of information.
A Dangerous Precedent
DeMaio’s concerns go beyond just this bill. He warns that if this legislation passes, it could set a dangerous precedent for the use of taxpayer money to fund biased media. He believes that this is part of a broader trend where politicians use public funds to secure favorable coverage and maintain their political power. DeMaio concludes by reminding viewers that the fight for a fair and balanced media is far from over and that continued vigilance is necessary.
“Anything to Spend our Tax Money”
People in the comments shared their thoughts: “These devilcrats will do anything to spend our tax money.”
Another commenter added: “I’m sure they have already been doing it for years including Hollywood.”
One person said: “Hmm, government run media,SOUNDS LIKE RUSSIA, oops no we live California”
The Future of Media
In his critique of Assembly Bill 886, Carl DeMaio paints a grim picture of the future of media and politics in California. He sees this proposed internet tax as a direct attack on both consumer choice and journalistic integrity, with potentially far-reaching consequences for the state’s residents. Whether or not you agree with DeMaio’s assessment, the debate over this bill is likely to continue, raising important questions about the role of government, media, and technology in modern society.
Using Taxpayer Money
What are your thoughts? Should taxpayer money be used to support struggling media outlets, even if those outlets are perceived to be biased? What impact might this proposed internet tax have on the broader media landscape and consumer costs? How can legislators balance the need to support local journalism with the need to ensure unbiased and balanced reporting?
See the full video on Carl DeMaio / Reform California’s YouTube channel for more details here.
