If there will be losers in the event of robust quantum computation not being realizable, they will likely be individuals who are working in the commercialization of the technology, not those academically involved in fundamental research. Programs at Google, Rigetti, IBM, D-Wave, Q-CTRL, Zapata, Horizon QC, Xanadu, etc. are all existentially tied to quantum computing through their business models[1] and they would have the financial incentive to “hold out”[2] on or not entertain opponents seriously.

I think somebody like Scott Aaronson—who has made an academic career in computer science and quantum computing—would gladly accept reality were it not to be what he hopes it is, and would be entirely willing to stand on a platform and broadcast the truth. Aaronson is in the business of understanding fundamental truths about computation, not (as far as anybody knows) being a shill for big business.

[1] Disclaimer: I’m not deeply familiar business-wise with all the companies listed, so take my “existential tie” with a grain of salt.

[2] I’m not claiming that any of these companies would conduct business dishonestly in the event that they were “wrong”.