California Gov. Gavin Newsom is facing a revolt from members of his own party over a proposed $20 million fund aimed at honoring the state’s living former governors.
The proposal, tucked into Newsom’s final $349.9 billion budget plan, would create a “Governors’ Legacies” fund dedicated to recognizing living former California governors and their contributions to the state.
The idea landed with a thud in Sacramento.
Democratic state Sen. Christopher Cabaldon, who has worked under all five living California governors, questioned the timing as the state wrestles with budget pressures and persistent economic challenges.
“It’s not really the time for celebrating legacies and building ballrooms,” Cabaldon said.
The criticism comes as California continues to confront a range of issues, including budget constraints, housing affordability concerns, homelessness and rising costs for consumers.
Democratic state Sen. Caroline Menjivar was even more blunt during a legislative hearing.
“I do not care to recognize the legacy of governors past or present,” Menjivar said. “I care about seniors having health insurance and seniors with disabilities having health insurance.”
The proposal immediately fueled accusations that Sacramento is prioritizing symbolic projects over pressing policy concerns.
Republicans seized on the controversy.
Steve Hilton, a Republican candidate for governor, called the proposal a “vanity project” and argued it reflected broader concerns about state spending.
“How out of touch can you get?” Hilton said.
Newsom’s office initially declined to provide details, directing questions to the California Department of Finance.
Department spokesman H.D. Palmer said specifics of the proposal had not yet been finalized.
After additional questions, Newsom spokeswoman Tara Gallegos emphasized that the funding was not intended to honor the current governor.
“It doesn’t include spending on the current governor, and details are still being worked out with the Legislature,” Gallegos said.
“This is earmarked funding for projects to recognize the past living governors of both parties for their service to the state, focused on their public policy milestones and important, substantial contributions to the people of California.”
Still, the proposal has fueled scrutiny because Newsom is entering the final months of his governorship.
The controversy has also revived discussion of a bronze bust commemorating Newsom’s tenure as mayor of San Francisco. Installed in 2018, the sculpture was funded through private donations and unveiled shortly before Newsom became governor.
More over at The New York Post:
Gavin Newsom ripped by Dems for $20M plan to honor governors https://t.co/dpEegMRSwK pic.twitter.com/NyEaYxGb8l
— New York Post (@nypost) May 26, 2026
