California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced an emergency special session to enhance the state's legal defenses against potential actions from the incoming Trump administration. The focus of this special session will be on protecting civil rights, reproductive freedom, climate action, and immigrant families, as stated by Newsom's office in a press release.
Newsom emphasized California's readiness to fight for its values, stating, 'Whether it be our fundamental civil rights, reproductive freedom, or climate action – we refuse to turn back the clock and allow our laws to be attacked.'
The special session is scheduled to convene on Monday, Dec. 2, with Newsom urging the state legislature to allocate additional funds to the California Department of Justice and other agencies for mounting legal challenges. This funding will support the ability to swiftly file litigation and seek injunctive relief against any unlawful federal actions.
During Trump's first term, Newsom initiated over 100 lawsuits against the federal government, reflecting the state's proactive stance in defending its policies and values.
Democratic state Senate president pro tempore, Mike McGuire, highlighted the importance of California's legal defense efforts, emphasizing the need to resist any attempts to undermine the state's progress.
However, Republican state Senate minority leader Brian Jones criticized the special session as a political maneuver, questioning the allocation of resources for legal battles while addressing pressing issues such as affordability and the state's deficit.
California's status as a sanctuary state for various marginalized groups, including illegal immigrants, individuals seeking abortions, and transgender youth, has raised concerns about potential federal actions under the incoming administration.
Newsom's proactive approach aligns with other Democratic leaders, such as New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James, who have pledged to defend their states against any perceived threats to their residents' rights and freedoms.
Hochul emphasized the importance of upholding New Yorkers' rights while expressing willingness to collaborate with the federal government on shared goals, signaling a commitment to safeguarding state interests.
