While California Gov. Gavin Newsom is preparing to fight President-elect Donald Trump when he takes office in January, California’s Republican leadership is moving in a different direction.
Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher (R–Yuba City) sent an open letter to Trump asking for his help to address California’s issues.
Driving the news: Last week Newsom convened a special session of the Legislature to “safeguard California values and fundamental rights” after Trump won the election.
- Newsom said last week that the special session will focus on protecting civil rights, reproductive freedom, climate action and immigrant families in California.
- The special session will start on Dec. 2.
The big picture: Gallagher congratulated Trump in the letter and asked for his partnership in addressing the significant challenges facing California.
- He highlighted wildfires, the housing crisis, rising crime and unaffordable energy and gas prices as some of the top issues that need to be tackled.
- Gallagher also said there is a critical need to ensure swift accountability for criminals throughout the state.
- “These issues require federal support, and I firmly believe that working together is the best way to deliver meaningful solutions for Californians,” Gallagher wrote. “While Governor Gavin Newsom wants to ‘Trump-proof’ California; Legislative Republicans want to partner with you to pursue real solutions. We have been fighting tirelessly to fix California, but we need your support. Californians deserve real progress, not political showdowns that ultimately cost taxpayers and distract from the urgent needs of our state and nation.”
- Gallagher added that Trump’s partnership will make a real difference to families, communities and businesses across California that have been struggling under the weight of these challenges.”
What they’re saying: “From wildfires to energy costs to crime, California is facing serious problems. With a new Trump administration, California has a unique opportunity to make progress on these critical issues,” Gallagher said in a statement. “It’s time to come together to find real solutions that improve people’s lives.”
