One thing I learned from doing a lot of statistical analysis many years ago…before accepting any data, first examine the methodology and criteria for how the data was pulled and compiled. Considering the source is also worthwhile, but doesnt address the facts.
The hard data they’re using is where people chose to call their address when they file tax returns and MediCal claims. You could probably shoot a lot of holes in these two pretty easily, but at least it’s a starting point. When they start to correlate between the data and various events, they’re talking about a causal relationship..i.e..people cant sell their houses for enough to make moving a worthy effort, therefore they dont move. Maybe this is accurate or maybe people cant get a job somewhere else either, or both. Or maybe people dont tell the truth about their address when they file?