a long-time Manhattan resident shares his reasons for departing from the city after 20 years. He emphasizes that his concerns extend beyond the high cost of living, focusing instead on the exorbitant taxes, which amounted to over 50% of his income. The speaker voices alarm over the city's spending priorities, particularly regarding public safety. He recounts personal experiences of dangerous encounters, such as a half-naked man attacking the air and a friend being sucker-punched. The speaker also criticizes the city's inefficient subway system, citing the $11 billion East Side Access Project as an example of mismanaged funds. He compares this cost to the Shanghai Metro, which could construct significantly more for the same amount. The speaker also laments the negative impact of the city's government, including endless construction projects that have ruined neighborhoods and an ineffective free daycare program for three-year-olds. These issues, along with the loss of affordability and quality of life, have led to a mass exodus from New York City, with half a million residents leaving since 2020. Despite his attachment to the city, the speaker has moved to New Jersey and reports an improved quality of life and better-run institutions.