I know; it's a big part of why CA is in deep political trouble. Had the border been secured 70 years ago and kept secure; CA would likely still be a good state to live. A lot of us, me included, would still be there.
CA is a love hate thing with me. I’m a native and have seen what the leftist have done to my beloved state. I wished all those that left had stayed, but I’m fully aware of the justified reasons they left. It just sucks real bad. I have nothing left but contempt for them. And I really don’t like being like this. I remember well how CA was before corrupt state government, millions of illegals, punitive home prices/taxes for >>everything<<.
You made a good choice IMO.