I talked my wife out of staying in MA, and it was not about being scared. it was about a state and every town being run by rats. Roads in a mess, sidewalks falling apart, state tax, anti gun laws the list is endless.
Now our votes count here and the quality of life is better.
We are in the same situation. Long-term and life-long Californians who lament the complete destruction of our once-grand state. We bought a refuge in Idaho and are spending increasing time there where it is well governed and sane.