Staff Reports
Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat from California, claims that climate change is the reason behind the state’s budget deficit. He cited unexpected weather events and delayed tax collections as the primary factors that contributed to the budget shortfall. According to Newsom, the state’s projected surplus was impacted by severe weather conditions, such as thunderstorms and atmospheric rivers, which led to delays in tax collections and financial setbacks. The governor emphasized the need to address climate change and its far-reaching impacts on the state’s finances.
California’s budget deficit, initially estimated at $66 billion, has now increased to nearly $74 billion, as announced by Newsom. This deficit comes after the state had reportedly enjoyed a $100 billion surplus just two years ago. Nevertheless, Newsom’s explanations were met with criticism from Republican vice chair of the state budget committee, Roger Niello, who accused the governor of failing to provide real solutions to address the issue. Niello also questioned Newsom’s decision to eliminate budgeted spending without offering concrete measures to tackle the deficit.
California Governor Gavin Newsom blames state’s massive deficit on “rain bombs” & “climate change.”
When Gavin Newsom shut down the state in 2020-2021 —far longer than any other governor—he sent California into a debt spiral. That COVID money from the Federal government is long… pic.twitter.com/j1VqRj0Bdh— Amy Reichert (@amyforsandiego) May 12, 2024
In addition, Newsom’s upcoming international travel plans have drawn attention from conservatives, as he is set to deliver a speech at the Vatican in Rome on global warming. Critics have pointed out the irony of Newsom emitting carbon emissions for such a trip while blaming climate change for the state’s financial challenges. The governor has been scrutinized for prioritizing climate change initiatives, along with homelessness and education, over resolving the budget deficit. GOP members assert that Newsom’s actions have contributed to exacerbating the deficit without offering effective solutions.
Overall, Newsom’s attributing the budget deficit to climate change has sparked controversy and drawn skepticism from conservative voices, who argue that the governor’s policies and spending decisions have played a significant role in California’s financial woes.
