Elon Musk to relocate SpaceX and X (formerly Twitter) Headquarters from California to Texas
Elon Musk has announced his intention to relocate the headquarters of SpaceX and X (formerly Twitter) from California to Texas, in response to a newly signed California law that prohibits schools from compelling teachers to notify parents if a student changes their gender identity.
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| Getty Images |
Musk declared, “This is the final straw,” criticizing the law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom as an attack on both families and companies. He added, “Because of this law and the many others that preceded it, attacking both families and companies, SpaceX will now move its HQ from Hawthorne, California, to Starbase, Texas.”
To infinity and beyond! 🚀 pic.twitter.com/VnFfCV5aUd
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 4, 2023
He further commented "I did make it clear to Governor Newsom about a year ago that laws of this nature would force families and companies to leave California to protect their children"
Musk, who has an adult transgender daughter, mentioned that he had warned Newsom about the potential consequences of such laws, suggesting they would drive families and businesses out of California to safeguard their children. In a follow-up post, Musk confirmed the relocation of X’s headquarters from San Francisco to Austin, citing safety concerns in the city: “had enough of dodging gangs of violent drug addicts just to get in and out of the building”.
The billionaire’s decision to move to Texas aligns with his previous business and personal shifts. In 2021, Musk moved Tesla’s headquarters from Palo Alto in Silicon Valley to Austin, Texas, and also changed his residence from California to Texas. This move is seen as part of his broader trend towards the state, which boasts no corporate or income tax and has a reputation for conservative politics.
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| Reuters |
Musk’s political views have become increasingly apparent, particularly after he acquired X in 2022. He frequently criticizes what he perceives as overly left-wing or “woke” policies and public figures. His support for conservative views was further highlighted when he endorsed Donald Trump for president, shortly after Trump survived the assassination attempt a few days ago.
California, known for its liberal stance with the Democratic Party controlling the governorship and state legislature, contrasts sharply with Texas’s conservative leanings, where the Republican Party dominates all three branches of state government. Musk’s move highlights the ongoing tension between differing political ideologies in the U.S. and the influence of state policies on business decisions.
Musk’s latest decisions reflect a broader trend among some businesses and individuals seeking more favorable regulatory environments and tax conditions, as well as safer, more accommodating localities for their operations and personal lives.