California faces a $2.9 billion budget shortfall in 2023, the fourth consecutive year of multibillion-dollar deficits, despite increased revenues; the state plans to prioritize education investments, rebuild reserves, and address federal funding losses, while lawmakers debate spending and cuts amid ongoing fiscal challenges.
California Governor Gavin Newsom proposed shifting oversight of the Department of Education from State Superintendent Tony Thurmond to the State Board of Education to streamline governance, a move that surprised Thurmond and faced criticism for potentially reducing accountability and funding for schools.
Governor Gavin Newsom's 2026 State of the State address celebrates California's resilience, highlights achievements in education, infrastructure, and social justice, and emphasizes the state's leadership in innovation and climate action while criticizing federal policies and advocating for continued progress and inclusivity.
Gavin Newsom delivered a State of the State address highlighting California's achievements in technology, education, and homelessness reduction, positioning the state as a counter to the Trump administration's policies. He emphasized progress on housing, clean energy, and healthcare, while criticizing federal actions and calling for unity on wildfire aid. Despite a reported 9% decrease in homelessness, lawmakers were cautious in their responses, and the state's budget outlook remains uncertain with a projected $18 billion deficit, though revenues have exceeded expectations.
California Governor Gavin Newsom plans to propose regulations targeting large corporate landlords to address housing affordability, aligning with similar rhetoric from President Trump, as part of a broader populist approach to blame big investors for the housing crisis, though experts debate the effectiveness of such measures.
California faces an $18 billion deficit as Gov. Gavin Newsom prepares to release his final budget plan, with options limited to raising taxes or cutting spending, both politically challenging. The state's financial situation is worsened by federal funding cuts and increased spending, particularly on health care programs like Medi-Cal. Political considerations and the upcoming gubernatorial transition influence decisions, with little appetite for tax hikes on high earners or significant spending cuts, raising concerns about long-term fiscal stability and the governor's legacy.
As Gavin Newsom's final year as California governor approaches, he faces the challenge of fulfilling his ambitious promises on housing, homelessness, and healthcare, amid political and budgetary hurdles, while positioning himself for a potential presidential run.
President Trump announced the withdrawal of the National Guard from Los Angeles following a Supreme Court ruling that limited his authority to deploy troops domestically, with California officials claiming victory in court and criticizing the deployment as unlawful and politically motivated. The legal dispute highlights ongoing tensions over federal and state control of military forces in U.S. cities.
California's budget outlook has worsened from a surplus to an $18 billion deficit due to unforeseen costs like wildfires, Medi-Cal expenses, and federal policy impacts, with projections indicating ongoing deficits and potential structural issues requiring revenue increases or cuts.
Attorney Alex Spiro warned California's governor that his billionaire clients would relocate if a proposed wealth tax passes, citing legal and economic concerns, including potential constitutional issues and capital flight.
Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency across multiple California counties due to severe storms caused by atmospheric rivers, which pose risks of flooding, landslides, and debris flows. The state has pre-positioned emergency resources and is urging residents to stay safe, avoid flooded roads, and prepare for ongoing storm conditions.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced the appointment of six new Superior Court Judges across California, including in Tulare, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino counties, filling vacancies left by retirements and elevations, with appointees having diverse legal backgrounds and all being Democrats.
California's crime rates are decreasing, with violent crime dropping significantly in major cities, while Governor Newsom launches a website to expose Trump's criminal associates and misconduct, contrasting effective state leadership with federal issues under Trump.
California Governor Gavin Newsom appointed former CDC officials Dr. Susan Monarez and Dr. Debra Houry to lead the state's new public health initiative, PHNIX, aimed at modernizing public health infrastructure and countering federal rollbacks, with plans to enhance scientific collaboration and data trust.
Democratic rivals are strategizing to challenge Gavin Newsom's 2028 presidential bid, highlighting his unpopularity outside California and his political baggage, while Newsom prepares with a memoir and a focus on broadening his appeal amid internal party debates.