Fact check: What percentage of US GDP does California contribute annually?

1. Summary of the results

Based on the analyses provided, California contributes more than 14% of US GDP annually. Multiple sources consistently report this figure, with the most recent data indicating that California accounts for more than 14% of the US's $28 trillion GDP as measured by the World Bank ^{[1] [2]}. This percentage is corroborated by additional sources that specifically state California accounts for "around 14%" of national GDP at nominal prices ^[3].

The analyses also reveal that California's state GDP is approximately $4.1 trillion ^{[4] [5]}, making it the fourth largest economy in the world ^[4]. California experienced 6 percent GDP growth in 2024 ^[4], demonstrating the state's continued economic expansion.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question lacks important contextual information that would provide a fuller picture of California's economic significance:

• California's global economic ranking: The state's economy ranks as the fourth largest in the world, not just within the United States ^[4]
• Comparative state contributions: New York accounts for around 8% of national GDP ^[3], meaning California and New York together contribute 22% of total US GDP ^[3]
• Blue state collective impact: California is part of a broader group of blue states that collectively contribute around 47% of the US's GDP ^[6], highlighting the significant economic influence of Democratic-leaning states
• Recent growth trends: California's 6 percent GDP growth in 2024 ^[4] indicates the state's economy is expanding faster than many other regions
• Corporate concentration: California leads the nation with the most Fortune 500 companies ^[5], providing additional context for its economic dominance

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question itself does not contain misinformation, as it is a straightforward factual inquiry. However, the sources of information reveal potential political bias:

• Multiple sources originate from California's Governor's office ^{[1] [5] [2]}, which has a clear political interest in emphasizing California's economic importance and success
• Political framing is evident in titles such as "Californians pay Trump's bills" ^[1], suggesting these statistics are being used to support specific political narratives about federal tax contributions and interstate fiscal relationships
• The timing of publications around political discussions (multiple sources from 2025) suggests these figures may be strategically highlighted during political debates

The California Governor's office would benefit from promoting these statistics to demonstrate the state's economic significance and justify its political positions on federal policy and taxation.