California Governor Seeks Funding for Legal Battles Against Trump Administration

By Judith Langowski
(Reuters) – California’s Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom announced he is seeking up to $25 million in additional funding for legal fights against the incoming Trump administration.

The announcement was made on the first day of a special session of the California legislature aimed at preparing for Trump’s second term. If approved, this funding would support the California Department of Justice and state agencies in court battles concerning reproductive rights, environmental protection, and immigration.

Governor Newsom emphasized that the new litigation fund would help protect essential services like disaster relief and healthcare that many Californians rely on. He stated the state intends to “defend against unlawful federal actions” threatening both public resources and civil rights, including reproductive healthcare.

Furthermore, Newsom claimed that these legal conflicts could compel the federal government to provide necessary funding, referencing previous legal victories during Trump’s first term.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta highlighted plans to enhance staffing to swiftly respond to actions from the Trump administration, including motions for restraining orders.

Between 2017 and 2022, California spent $42 million on litigation against the Trump administration, resulting in over 120 lawsuits. Additionally, the state assembly has introduced bills focusing on protecting access to abortion medication and enforcing the Reproductive Privacy Act.

Newsom's office anticipates that the budget legislation will be enacted before Trump’s inauguration on January 20.