In his upcoming final State of the State address, California Governor Gavin Newsom plans to outline his legacy by emphasizing the state’s economic and policy achievements while positioning California as a contrast to the dysfunction observed in Washington, particularly during the previous Trump administration.
Scheduled for delivery on Thursday morning to lawmakers at the Capitol, Newsom’s speech will spotlight California’s economic strength, progress in reducing homelessness, and increased funding for education. The Governor is also expected to hint at his aspirations beyond his tenure, notably a potential presidential campaign in 2028.
Newsom’s prepared remarks illustrate a narrative of California as a robust financial entity dedicated to improving the lives of its residents. He acknowledges the state’s challenges, particularly high housing costs, but stresses ongoing efforts to address these issues. “In California, we are not silent. We are not hunkering down. We are not retreating. We are a beacon,” he stated, promoting the state as a model for others to follow.
During the address, Newsom is expected to announce a significant nine percent reduction statewide in unsheltered homelessness, a key issue for his administration that has drawn criticism. Despite California housing nearly a quarter of the nation’s homeless population, current initiatives are showing early successes. The Governor will also reaffirm the effectiveness of his two priority programs—the CARE Court mental health initiative and Proposition 1, which provides funding for mental health and homelessness support, stating counties are now better equipped to respond to the crisis.
Newsom’s remarks will include strong assertions against the practices of private equity and institutional investors buying up homes, which exacerbate affordability issues. “This year, I look forward to working with all of you to combat this monopolistic behavior,” he plans to tell lawmakers, signaling a unified front to enhance accountability and support California families.
Furthermore, Newsom is expected to reveal budget priorities that promise record per-student funding for public education and a fully-funded universal transitional kindergarten program. He will announce a historic budget proposal which includes $27,418 per student and indicate a significant structural change in education governance, aligning the policymaking California State Board of Education with the California Department of Education.
This address marks a significant occasion as it will be the first time in five years that Newsom delivers a State of the State address from the Assembly rostrum, with his last in-person address occurring shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic.
In stark contrast to last year’s themes, where he described the state facing turmoil from federal governance, this year’s address is set to highlight California’s resurgence, bolstering resilience amidst challenges. Governor Newsom’s positive outlook on California’s potential reflects both a commitment to improvement and a reminder that the efforts are far from complete, inviting collaboration to elevate the state even further.
California now ranks as the world’s fourth-largest economy, and Newsom is determined to celebrate that success amid ongoing challenges. “California’s success is not by chance — it’s by design,” he stated, aiming to reinforce a narrative of optimism and proactive governance.