Newsom proposes $25M from state legislature to ‘Trump-proof’ California
California Governor Gavin Newsom has taken a bold step in response to the upcoming change in administration by convening a special emergency session of the state legislature. The purpose of this session is to propose a “Trump-proof” legal defense fund of up to $25 million for the state’s justice department. This fund is intended to protect California’s interests and rights, regardless of who is in the White House.
Newsom emphasized the importance of California as a stronghold of rights and freedoms for all people. He expressed a willingness to work with the incoming administration and stated that he wants President Trump to succeed in serving all Americans. However, he made it clear that the state will not hesitate to take action when lives are threatened or when rights and freedoms are targeted.
The proposed legislation is expected to be introduced by the majority Democratic lawmakers in the coming weeks and signed into law before Inauguration Day on January 20th. California’s Department of Justice has been actively involved in litigation against the Trump administration, leading 122 lawsuits and spending $42 million on legal battles. In one case, the federal government was ordered to reimburse California nearly $60 million in public safety grants.
While California has been involved in numerous legal battles with the Trump administration, President-elect Donald Trump has filed only a few major lawsuits against the state. These lawsuits have focused on issues such as sanctuary state laws, net neutrality, vehicle emissions standards, and the controversial AB 5 independent contractor law.
The special session called by Governor Newsom has been met with criticism from Republican state Senator Brian Jones, who dismissed it as a political stunt. Jones argued that the session is a distraction from the Democrats’ recent losses in California and raised concerns about the state’s financial situation.
Despite the criticism, Newsom is determined to protect California’s interests and ensure that the state is well-prepared for any challenges that may arise with the new administration. The proposed legal defense fund will provide the necessary resources to defend the state’s rights and freedoms in the face of potential threats.
In conclusion, Governor Newsom’s proactive approach to safeguarding California’s interests in the face of political change demonstrates his commitment to upholding the state’s values and principles. The special session and proposed legal defense fund reflect his dedication to protecting the rights and freedoms of all Californians, regardless of political affiliations.
