California voters turn against the billionaire tax as a new poll finds 52.6% oppose the 5% wealth levy

Google co-founder Sergey Brin has poured more than $100 million into fighting Proposition 40, which could otherwise cost him an estimated $13.3 billion. Only 34.5% of voters back the one-off levy, which aims to raise $100bn for healthcare. Pollster John McLaughlin said voters 'just don't trust Sacramento politicians' on taxes. A poll last week had the measure narrowly ahead.

Brin has just handed a further $20 million to the anti-tax group Build a Better California.

One billionaire said the measure made him feel 'a little bit like I wasn't wanted'.

The pro-tax campaign cheered Mark Zuckerberg's deal to stay in California.