California Governor Gavin Newsom and state lawmakers are set to begin a special legislative session on Monday to protect the state’s progressive laws in anticipation of another Trump presidency. The session aims to prepare for legal challenges to state policies, particularly those related to immigration, climate action, and reproductive rights.
The State’s Response to a Second Trump Presidency
Governor Newsom, a strong critic of former President Donald Trump, is taking steps to ensure California remains a leader in opposing federal policies under a potential second Trump administration. The Democratic governor, alongside his legislative allies, is requesting additional funding for the state attorney general’s office to support legal challenges against any federal efforts to undo California’s laws.
“We’re not going to be caught flat-footed,” Newsom said, emphasizing the need to prepare for a robust legal fight.
Areas of Concern for California’s Progressive Laws
California, which has often been at odds with the Trump administration, is anticipating federal challenges to several landmark policies, including those that provide sanctuary for immigrants and protect access to abortion services. As the nation’s most populous state, California has pioneered laws to address climate change, including a mandate for all new cars sold by 2035 to be electric, and has also extended state-funded healthcare to all low-income residents, regardless of immigration status.
Proposed Actions and Funding Requests
In addition to the legal funding request, Newsom has proposed reviving a rebate program for electric vehicles should the incoming administration eliminate federal tax credits for EV purchases. Other plans under consideration include a backup disaster relief fund to address California’s wildfire risks, particularly after Trump’s threats regarding federal disaster aid.
Attorney General Rob Bonta has committed to defending California’s immigrant population and safeguarding policies related to climate change and reproductive rights.
Community Response and Marches
Ahead of the special session, hundreds of activists are expected to gather at the state Capitol to protest Trump’s mass deportation plans and to urge lawmakers to protect immigrant rights. The public demonstrations underscore the deep divisions in the state regarding Trump’s policies, particularly in light of the ongoing immigration and climate battles.
Republican Response to the Special Session
California Republicans, however, have criticized Newsom’s approach, with Rep. Vince Fong arguing that the state should seek to cooperate with the incoming Trump administration rather than engage in what he sees as a futile resistance. Fong and other GOP lawmakers have called Newsom’s actions “tone-deaf” to the concerns of Californians who are dissatisfied with the state’s direction and the political climate.
Preparing for Legal Challenges and Budget Concerns
As California braces for potential legal battles, it faces a projected $2 billion budget deficit next year. Despite these financial concerns, Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, a key proponent of the special session, believes the legal investment is necessary. The state’s successful lawsuits against the first Trump administration, including victories related to immigration enforcement and the 2020 census, highlight the importance of proactive legal action.
