Gavin Newsom is facing criticism after introducing a proposal that would create a $20 million fund to honor California’s living former governors.
The proposal, included in Newsom’s final $349.9 billion state budget plan, would establish a “Governors’ Legacies” fund for projects recognizing former state leaders.
Critics from both political parties questioned the timing of the idea as California continues dealing with budget concerns, homelessness, rising living costs, and healthcare challenges.
Democrats Publicly Oppose the Plan
Several Democratic lawmakers strongly criticized the proposal during recent committee discussions.
Christopher Cabaldon said the state should focus on more urgent priorities rather than “celebrating legacies and building ballrooms.”
Meanwhile, Caroline Menjivar called the proposal “absurd” and argued lawmakers should focus on healthcare coverage for seniors and people with disabilities instead.
Another Democratic senator, Lola Smallwood-Cuevas, questioned whether Californians would support spending millions on honoring politicians while communities struggle with everyday costs.
Republicans Also Attack Proposal
Republican critics also reacted strongly to the proposal.
Steve Hilton described the plan as a “vanity project” and accused Newsom of being disconnected from the financial struggles many Californians face.
Suzette Martinez Valladares criticized the idea as residents continue dealing with high gas prices, housing costs, and grocery expenses.
Questions Remain About How Money Would Be Used
Details about the proposal remain unclear.
According to reports, the budget language only briefly references the fund and does not fully explain how the money would be spent.
Newsom’s office later said the funding would honor former governors from both political parties and recognize their public service contributions.
The plan could potentially honor former governors including Pete Wilson, Gray Davis, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Jerry Brown.
Officials said the proposal would not directly fund projects honoring Newsom himself while he remains governor.
Critics Point to Newsom’s Past Statue Controversy
Reports also noted that Newsom previously approved a bronze bust honoring his time as mayor of San Francisco.
The sculpture was installed in City Hall in 2018 and funded through private donations connected to businesses associated with Newsom.
Critics have used that example to question whether the new proposal could eventually benefit Newsom after he leaves office.
Budget Experts Recommend Rejection
California’s nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office reportedly recommended lawmakers reject the proposal.
Budget experts warned against adding new discretionary spending because of concerns over future structural deficits despite improved tax revenue this year.
Lawmakers continue debating whether the proposal should remain in the final state budget.
