Tag Archives: California Politics

Gavin Newsom’s “Double Veto” Politics: How Hindu Americans Got Caught in California’s Caste Debate

California’s political stage just witnessed a storm few saw coming. Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent veto of the caste discrimination bill (SB403) and the transnational repression bill (SB509) has ignited fierce debate across the Hindu American community. What began as a legal move has now spiraled into a larger cultural flashpoint — one that’s redefining identity, religion, and representation in California politics.

Supporters call it a stand for constitutional fairness, while critics see it as a step back in the fight against caste bias. Between accusations of anti-Hindu bias, political posturing, and rising diaspora activism, Newsom’s twin vetoes have opened a deep conversation about how far California’s progressive politics can stretch before clashing with the beliefs of Indian Americans.

As the dust settles, one question lingers — is this a bold act of balance or a misstep that could cost Newsom the trust of a growing voter bloc?

Story Highlights

The Hindu American community, a major part of the Indian diaspora, challenges what it sees as a “weaponized” caste narrative.
Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed California’s SB 403 (Caste Ban Bill) in 2023 and SB 509 (Transnational Repression Bill) in 2025.
Critics call the vetoes a “double whammy” — political moves that both stereotype and court the community.
Hindu advocacy groups like HAF and CoHNA warn against growing Hinduphobia in American politics.
Left-leaning coalitions and progressive lawmakers continue pushing caste legislation despite legal and community backlash.

A Community Under Scrutiny

Across the United States, the Hindu American community—roughly two-thirds of the country’s five million Indian Americans—finds itself navigating a politically charged terrain. At the center of this conversation lies the enduring and often misunderstood concept of caste.

What began as a limited social categorization tied to occupation and ritual identity centuries ago in India has become, in recent years, a global flashpoint in political and academic circles. Many Hindus argue that caste, as a discriminatory structure, no longer defines their social or religious life. Yet, in the United States, activists and politicians continue to frame it as a pressing civil rights concern.

For many Hindu Americans, that framing feels deeply unfair. “It’s like being branded for something your society has already moved past,” said one Bay Area professional who attended a protest organized by the Hindu American Foundation (HAF).

The Origins of the “Weaponization” Debate

The term “weaponizing caste” has entered the political lexicon of the diaspora, reflecting a sense that the issue has been repurposed for ideological goals.

Hindu advocacy groups, including HAF and the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), say certain leftist coalitions and activist networks are exploiting caste to vilify Hindus—much as conservative nationalists in the U.S. or Europe are sometimes stereotyped as “racists” or “Nazis.”

“Caste is being used as a political weapon,” a CoHNA spokesperson noted, “not to protect anyone, but to divide communities and stigmatize one faith in particular.”

Groups such as Equality Labs and Hindus for Human Rights have spearheaded campaigns to ban caste-based discrimination in American workplaces and universities. However, Hindu advocacy groups argue that these laws are redundant since existing ancestry and religion protections already address such concerns.

The Caste Ban Bill (SB 403): A Flashpoint in 2023

In 2023, California’s Senate Bill 403—authored by Senator Aisha Wahab (D–Hayward)—sought to explicitly add “caste” as a protected category under the state’s anti-discrimination laws.

The bill gained traction after weeks of campaigning by Equality Labs, whose director, Thenmozhi Soundararajan, undertook a hunger strike in support of the legislation. The movement found favor among progressive circles in Silicon Valley and university campuses.

But it also met fierce resistance. Hindu groups organized rallies across California, calling the proposal “deeply flawed” and “inherently discriminatory.” They contended that it singled out Hindus, ignored caste dynamics in other South Asian faiths, and relied on unverified survey data.

“Adding caste would have legitimized profiling,” said HAF Executive Director Suhag Shukla. “The law already protects everyone. Why isolate one community?”

Governor Gavin Newsom eventually vetoed SB 403 on October 7, 2023. His statement described the bill as “unnecessary,” explaining that existing protections for ancestry and religion were sufficient. While many in the Hindu community celebrated the decision, others viewed it as politically calculated.

Behind the scenes, prominent Indian American donors reportedly warned that passing the bill could alienate Hindu voters and strain U.S.–India relations, especially amid ongoing geopolitical tensions with China.

The Transnational Repression Bill (SB 509): A Repeat Scene

Two years later, a similar controversy unfolded.

In 2025, Senator Anna Caballero (D–Merced) introduced Senate Bill 509, which aimed to train California law enforcement agencies to identify “transnational repression” — or attempts by foreign governments to intimidate or harm dissidents living abroad.

The bill referenced incidents such as the 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani separatist in Canada. Yet, Hindu organizations quickly warned that its broad language on “foreign proxies” could unfairly target Indian Americans involved in diaspora advocacy.

“This would have placed an invisible mark on anyone who speaks in favor of India,” argued a CoHNA spokesperson. “It could have turned loyal citizens into suspects.”

Governor Newsom vetoed SB 509 on October 13, 2025, citing fiscal concerns and overlap with federal enforcement efforts. Once again, the veto was celebrated by Hindu groups—but viewed through the lens of political triangulation.

The “Double Whammy” Effect in California Politics

Political analysts have called this pattern the “double whammy effect.”

In both cases, the Hindu community first faced profiling and stereotyping through controversial legislation. Then, after public backlash, the governor’s vetoes appeared to reverse the damage, earning goodwill and political capital in the process.

“First, you get painted as the problem. Then, you’re told you’ve been saved,” said one observer in Los Angeles. “It’s smart politics—but the community isn’t fooled.”

With nearly 800,000 Indian Americans in California, the demographic has significant electoral weight. Analysts suggest that the vetoes may have helped Newsom retain favor among Hindu American voters and donors, particularly in swing suburbs of the Bay Area and Southern California.

Former Federal Election Commission chair Ann Ravel told the Washington Post that the move likely influenced both vote flow and fund flow in upcoming races — a telling sign of California’s complex political calculus.

A Growing Divide in the Diaspora

Despite the vetoes, the caste debate in America shows no sign of fading. Progressive groups continue to press for legislation at city and federal levels, while Hindu organizations fight to counter what they call “institutional Hinduphobia.”

According to the FBI, reported incidents of anti-Hindu hate have risen for four consecutive years. At the same time, internal divisions among Indian Americans have deepened, with younger generations often more receptive to “equity-based” approaches than their elders.

A 2023 Washington Post analysis found that Indian Americans are split: some support measures addressing social equity, while others view them as stigmatizing and exclusionary.

“The community is at a crossroads,” said a sociologist at UC Berkeley. “It’s trying to balance heritage pride with the need to belong in America’s broader diversity framework.”

Beyond California: A National Conversation

The debate is no longer confined to the West Coast. Cities like Seattle and Fresno have already passed caste discrimination bans, and lawmakers such as Rep. Pramila Jayapal have introduced federal-level discussions. Meanwhile, a 27-member congressional caucus representing Hindu, Jain, Buddhist, and Sikh voices has emerged to oppose any legislation that could single out specific faith groups.

Observers note that these battles are shaping a new kind of diaspora politics — one where religion, ethnicity, and global geopolitics intersect in ways unseen before.

Conclusion: Between Identity and Politics

The controversy surrounding SB 403 and SB 509 has revealed more than just a policy disagreement; it has exposed the fragile dynamics of diaspora identity in American politics.

Governor Newsom’s vetoes underscore how minority issues can be leveraged for votes rather than solutions. For many Hindu Americans, the challenge now is to preserve unity, dignity, and visibility in a polarized landscape where every issue risks being politicized.

As the community looks toward 2028 and beyond, one question lingers:
Can Hindu Americans shape their own narrative — or will they remain caught in the crossfire of political convenience?

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Katie Porter’s Viral Meltdown Rocks California Governor Race

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California Democratic frontrunner Katie Porter is facing intense political scrutiny after two viral videos surfaced showing her berating a staff member and clashing with a reporter. The incidents, which quickly spread across social media, have raised questions about her temperament as she campaigns to replace Governor Gavin Newsom in 2026.

In her first public statement since the controversy broke, Porter admitted she had “fallen short” of the standards expected from a public leader and issued an apology. “When I look at those videos, I want people to know that I understand that I could have handled things better,” Porter said during an interview on Inside California Politics.

She continued, emphasizing that she values her team’s contributions:

“I think I’m known as someone who can handle tough questions, who’s willing to face scrutiny. And I want people to know I really value the incredible work that my staff can do.”

However, the fallout within the Democratic Party has been swift. Many party members have distanced themselves, and some analysts suggest the controversy could damage her standing as the leading Democratic candidate for California governor.

Story Highlights

Katie Porter apologizes after viral videos show heated exchanges with reporter and staffer.
Democratic frontrunner faces questions over her temperament and leadership style.
One clip shows her threatening to walk out of a CBS interview.
Another video shows Porter shouting and using profanity at a staffer in 2021.
Governor Gavin Newsom’s successor race heats up ahead of the 2026 California primary.
Porter vows to stay in the race despite criticism from party insiders.

When pressed on whether more such videos might exist, Porter sidestepped direct confirmation.

“I can tell you what I’ve told you,” she said, “which is that I’m taking responsibility for the situation, and I’m also not going to back down from fighting for California—from being tough.”

Her comments reflect a delicate balancing act—acknowledging fault while doubling down on her image as a fighter. The incident underscores how quickly image and perception can shift in today’s digital age, where a few viral moments can alter a campaign’s momentum overnight.

The first viral clip, recorded during a recent interview with CBS News, showed Porter threatening to walk out mid-conversation and laughing off a journalist’s question. The second, older video from 2021, captured the former congresswoman shouting at a staffer and using an expletive.

For a politician once praised for her composed and sharp questioning style in Congress, the contrast has been striking. From 2019 to 2025, Katie Porter served in the U.S. House of Representatives, becoming famous for her viral whiteboard interrogations during congressional hearings. Her incisive questioning and fact-driven approach earned her a reputation as a fearless watchdog of corporate power.

Now, that same toughness is being reassessed by voters and fellow Democrats as a possible liability. Political strategists note that the controversy may not end her campaign but could shift the tone of the California governor race, especially as new contenders consider entering the field.

Governor Gavin Newsom, who cannot seek another term, remains a central figure in California politics and is widely considered a potential 2028 Democratic presidential contender. With Vice President Kamala Harris confirming she won’t run for governor, Porter had emerged as the natural frontrunner. But the latest developments may open the door for others—such as Senator Alex Padilla, who is reportedly being urged to join the race before the June 2026 primary.

Despite the uproar, Porter appears determined to continue.

“I’m not going anywhere,” she said firmly. “California deserves a leader who’s not afraid to fight—and I intend to be that leader.”

As the California governor race gathers momentum, Porter’s apology and response to the controversy will likely shape her public image in the months ahead. What began as a campaign about policy and leadership may now hinge on character and composure, two qualities voters will weigh heavily in a state known for its demanding political landscape.

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California Universities Warned: Newsom Threatens Funding Over Trump’s Academic Compact

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California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a sharp warning to California universities after the Trump administration unveiled a controversial proposal known as the “Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education.” According to Newsom, any institution in the state that signs the compact will “instantly” lose state funding, including access to the Cal Grants program, California’s $2.8 billion student financial aid initiative.

The administration’s compact, offered to nine prominent institutions including the University of Southern California (USC), outlines sweeping changes in how universities should operate. It demands the closure of departments deemed hostile to conservative ideas, a strict cap on international undergraduate students at 15%, adherence to the administration’s definition of gender, and a ban on considering race or sex in admissions and hiring. In exchange, universities would be granted what the White House describes as “substantial and meaningful federal grants.”

Story Highlights:

Governor’s Warning: Gavin Newsom says any California universities signing Trump’s compact will lose billions in state funding.
Compact Requirements: Demands closure of certain academic departments, a 15% cap on international students, federal gender definition, and race/sex bans in hiring and admissions.
Financial Stakes: Institutions risk losing Cal Grants and state support if they comply.
Trump’s Offer: Federal grants offered in exchange for compliance, along with tuition freezes and stricter grading standards.
Impact on USC: With over 25% of its freshman class being international students, USC would be heavily affected by the proposed limits.

Newsom’s office strongly condemned the proposal, describing it as “nothing short of a hostile takeover of America’s universities.”

“It would impose strict government-mandated definitions of academic terms, erase diversity, and rip control away from campus leaders to install government-mandated conservative ideology in its place,” the governor’s office said in a statement.

The statement also highlighted concerns about financial autonomy. “It even dictates how schools must spend their own endowments. Any institution that resists could be hit with crushing fines or stripped of federal research funding.”

Newsom himself was direct in his warning:

“If any California university signs this radical agreement, they’ll lose billions in state funding – including Cal Grants – instantly. California will not bankroll schools that sell out their students, professors, researchers, and surrender academic freedom.”

The Trump administration framed the compact differently. Senior White House adviser May Mailman told the Wall Street Journal that the offer was made to institutions considered “good actors,” with leadership seen as “reformers” committed to “higher-quality education.”

Alongside the restrictions on hiring and speech, the compact also requires tuition freezes for five years and measures to crack down on grade inflation. According to the Wall Street Journal, schools would have to address the rising number of students receiving top grades, a trend the administration argues undermines educational standards.

The University of Southern California, a private research institution with an $8.2 billion endowment, acknowledged receiving the proposal. In a brief statement, USC said, “We are reviewing the Administration’s letter,” but did not directly respond to Newsom’s warning.

The Los Angeles Times reported that more than a quarter of USC’s 2025 freshman class is made up of international students, with more than half coming from China or India. The Trump proposal would not only cap international enrollment at 15% but also restrict students from any single country to just 5% of the total undergraduate population.

This measure could reshape campuses like USC, where diversity and global representation play a major role in the academic environment. Federal data shows most American universities fall below the 15% threshold, but around 120 schools—including USC, Columbia University, Emory University, and Boston University—exceed it.

For now, California universities are weighing the cost of federal funding against the state’s threat of losing billions in aid. The outcome will test the balance of academic freedom, financial stability, and political influence across some of the nation’s most prestigious campuses.

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Prop 50 Redistricting Battle Puts Doug LaMalfa and California’s First Congressional District in the Spotlight

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Inside a crowded banquet hall in northern California in early August, a rare event unfolded: Rep. Doug LaMalfa appeared at his first Chico town hall in eight years. The Republican, a rice farmer and seven-term member of Congress, found himself confronting a room full of constituents angry over immigration raids, tariffs, Medicaid and Medicare cuts, and the impending closure of rural hospitals.

As he spoke about “waste and fraud” in government programs, shouts grew louder. One person called for his resignation. Another yelled, “No fascism in America.” The tense scene reflected not only local frustrations but also the national stakes hanging over California’s First Congressional District.

Days later, Gov. Gavin Newsom unveiled a plan to put Proposition 50 before voters in a November special election. The proposal would redraw California’s congressional map to add five Democratic seats to the U.S. House. For LaMalfa, who has reliably won reelection since 2013, Prop 50 could reshape his district and potentially end his tenure.

Story Highlights

Proposition 50: November special election to redraw California’s congressional map and create five Democratic seats.
Doug LaMalfa at Risk: Republican representative of California’s First Congressional District could lose his seat under the new map.
Town Hall Uproar: Constituents voice anger over immigration raids, tariffs, health care cuts, and rural hospital closures.
National Impact: Prop 50 seen as a key battle in the fight for control of the U.S. House.
Redistricting Debate: Democrats say Prop 50 counters Texas gerrymandering; Republicans call it unfair mid-decade redistricting.

Rural District Under Strain

California’s First Congressional District stretches from the almond and rice fields of the Sacramento Valley to the fire-scarred Sierra Nevada and Cascade foothills. Once a Democratic stronghold, it has voted Republican since the 1980s. Former President Donald Trump carried the district in 2016 and 2024 with 61% of the vote.

Butte County, where LaMalfa lives, straddles two political cultures. Chico, a university town, leans liberal, while surrounding agricultural areas are solidly conservative. Wildfires have deepened local crises: the 2018 Camp Fire destroyed Paradise, the 2020 North Complex Fire wiped out Berry Creek, and last year’s Park Fire ranked among the largest in state history.

A High-Stakes Redistricting Battle

Democrats and Republicans are scrambling to mobilize before the November vote on Prop 50. Audrey Denney, a Democrat who came within 9.5% of unseating LaMalfa in 2018, said she will run again if the proposition passes.

“I love the new district,” Denney said. “It combines the two college towns on each end, Santa Rosa and Chico. Both have been historically devastated by wildfires, both surrounded by agriculture.”

She argued Prop 50 is necessary “in this moment of time that we’re living in, with the scope and the scale of the threat that we’re up against.”

Republicans frame Prop 50 as an existential threat.

“We already only have nine seats throughout the entire state of California on the Republican side and we could go down to four seats if 50 passes,” said Teri DuBose, chair of the Butte County Republican Party and a LaMalfa staffer. “The voters should be picking their representatives, not the representatives picking their constituents.”

LaMalfa’s Record and Response

LaMalfa has represented California’s First Congressional District since 2013. In a recent interview with the Chico Enterprise-Record, he cited his staff’s work helping constituents with Social Security, Medicaid and Veterans Affairs as his proudest accomplishments.

“It’s defending these folks and giving them a level of hope that somebody is actually listening to them,” he said.

Critics argue he mirrors Trump “line by line” on policy. Denney accused him of introducing “anti-LGBTQ, anti-public health” legislation that “harms our communities.”

LaMalfa did not agree to a new interview, but his communications director Paige Boogaard issued a statement:

“Congressman LaMalfa purposefully chose highly contentious areas of his district so that they feel heard. Their reactions were completely expected,” she said. “Raucous town halls in Chico do not change the fact that District 1 and Northern California remain overwhelmingly conservative and overwhelmingly supportive of both Congressman LaMalfa’s and the President’s policies.”

Health Care and Rural Concerns

The district’s rural identity shapes its politics. Water rights, wildfires, housing and homelessness are dominant issues. Glenn Medical Center will soon close its emergency room, leaving Glenn County without a hospital after the federal government revoked its “critical access” designation. LaMalfa’s office says he continues to work on rural health care.

The National Stakes

The special election could cost up to $282 million. Under the proposed map, Butte County would merge with counties farther west and south, including Sonoma. Democrats nationwide see Prop 50 as a path to retake the House and block Trump’s agenda.

Bob Mulholland, a veteran Democratic strategist in Butte County, said: “Governor Newsom doing Prop 50 has got Democrats all across America saying to themselves: ‘Hey, we got a chance to retake the House to defeat Trump.’”

Republican activists counter that Prop 50 is a costly power grab. DuBose noted frustration that the state is spending heavily on the special election while other voter-approved measures remain underfunded.

Grassroots Mobilization on Both Sides

Local chapters of both parties are racing to rally voters. In Denney’s Chico home, thousands of pro-Prop 50 flyers sit ready for distribution. South in Yuba County, Republican chair Johanna Lassaga has purchased 10,000 yard signs to oppose the measure.

Even in the farmlands of Glenn County, Lee McCorkle, the local Republican chair, has been posting signs. “Doug, he’s a conservative guy, he’s a rice farmer, he spends a lot of time to be a congressman,” McCorkle said. “It’s a heck of a job. I wouldn’t want it.”

Denney, who chairs the Democratic Action Club of Chico, has been traveling across the district to speak with voters. “Even up to a month ago, I had zero belief that anything would ever change,” she said. “It’s gonna have a different ending this time.”

Whether Prop 50 passes or fails, California’s First Congressional District has become a frontline in the fight over redistricting, representation, and the balance of power in the U.S. House.

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Ian Calderon Enters California Governor Race: Millennials, Bitcoin, and Big Promises

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Former California Assembly member Ian Calderon, 39, has officially entered the Democratic primary to replace Governor Gavin Newsom in next year’s high-profile California governor race. Calderon, who made history as the youngest majority leader in state Assembly history, is positioning himself as a fresh, tech-savvy voice for a new generation of Californians.

“I believe California should be the best place in the world to raise a family, buy a home, and build a future,” Calderon said in his campaign announcement. “To achieve that, we need a new generation of leadership ready to tackle the real challenges facing families today.”

Story Highlights:

Ian Calderon, 39, launches campaign for California governor race.
Pledges to address gas prices, housing affordability, child care costs, and cryptocurrency adoption.
Key Democratic rivals include Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, and Antonio Villaraigosa.
GOP candidates include Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton.
California Democrats outnumber Republicans nearly 2-to-1; GOP has not won statewide in almost 20 years.
Calderon comes from a politically connected family with a long legacy in California politics.

Calderon first entered the political scene in 2012 as the first millennial elected to the California Assembly at just 27 years old. He quickly rose to become the youngest majority leader in the state’s history. However, Calderon chose not to seek reelection in 2020, citing a desire to spend more time with his wife and young children.

Since stepping away from the Assembly, Calderon has kept a visible presence in political conversations, often emphasizing issues that resonate with younger voters. In his latest campaign video, he highlighted pressing issues such as rising gas prices, affordable housing shortages, and the growing costs of child care.

“We are facing real challenges that impact families directly,” Calderon said. “I’m committed to finding practical solutions that make life more affordable for everyday Californians.”

In addition to traditional policy issues, Calderon is positioning himself as a forward-thinking, tech-friendly candidate. During a livestream event titled “Crypto Town Hall,” he proposed using cryptocurrency like bitcoin to fund various state programs. “Once I’m governor, I’m going to make sure that we hold bitcoin on our balance sheet,” Calderon said, emphasizing his belief in integrating innovative financial technologies into government.

The California governor race has already attracted several notable Democrats, including former Biden administration Health Secretary Xavier Becerra, former U.S. House member Katie Porter, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. On the Republican side, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and conservative commentator Steve Hilton have announced their campaigns.

California Democrats enjoy a strong advantage in statewide elections, outnumbering registered Republicans by nearly 2-to-1. Republicans have not won a statewide office in nearly two decades, making the Democratic primary a key battleground for potential leadership shifts.

Calderon’s political lineage also underscores his prominence in California politics. He succeeded his father, Charles Calderon, in the Assembly, while two of his uncles, Ron and Tom Calderon, also served in the state Legislature before being convicted on public corruption charges in 2016. His stepmother, Lisa Calderon, later replaced him in the Assembly.

As the California governor race heats up, Ian Calderon’s campaign highlights a combination of youthful leadership, family-focused policy promises, and a willingness to embrace new technologies, setting him apart in a crowded Democratic field.

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California Redistricting Chaos: Common Cause Goes Neutral, Stirring Political Fire

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California Republicans have reassembled much of the coalition that helped bring independent redistricting lines to the state more than a decade ago, now aiming to challenge Gov. Gavin Newsom’s mid-decade redistricting plan. Yet one key change stands out: historically influential good-government groups, including California Common Cause and the League of Women Voters, have stepped back from opposing the proposal. Their neutrality has sent ripples through the political and civic landscape, raising questions about the influence of partisanship and internal pressures on watchdog organizations.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Republicans in California challenge Gov. Newsom’s mid-decade redistricting plan.
Good-government organizations, including California Common Cause and the League of Women Voters, have opted for neutrality.
Common Cause returned $200,000 from Charles Munger Jr., citing misleading mailers.
The neutrality reduces political pressure on Gov. Newsom and affects broader Democratic redistricting strategies.
Internal disagreements within Common Cause led to advisory board resignations over minority representation and fairness concerns.
Observers warn that the shift reflects growing polarization and pressures on historically independent watchdog organizations.

Until recently, California Common Cause was reportedly preparing a campaign to fight the snap gerrymander. Internal records and interviews suggest the group was actively strategizing to counter the redistricting plan and align with supporters of independent district mapping.

However, the national leadership of Common Cause ultimately approved Gov. Newsom’s plan, prompting multiple board members to resign. The move highlights the growing tension between the organization’s long-standing opposition to gerrymandering and its concern for broader democratic stability in a politically polarized era.

In an early August email to Charles Munger Jr., a wealthy philanthropist who has championed governance reforms, California Common Cause Executive Director Darius Kemp wrote:

“I am excited to work with you on this fight,”

and outlined strategies to combat both California’s Democratic-led redistricting and a GOP-led effort in Texas. He also detailed plans for a “full-scale campaign to defeat a gerrymandering ballot initiative.”

Such a campaign would have been consistent with the organization’s history. Common Cause spent years advocating for independent redistricting and had partnered with Munger to pass Proposition 20, a voter-backed initiative establishing independent oversight of district mapping.

Instead, that partnership dissolved. Common Cause returned a $200,000 donation from Munger, accusing his campaign of misleading voters into believing the organization supported his effort against California’s redistricting. A notice on the group’s website reads:

“Common Cause is not for sale.”

Munger expressed disappointment in a statement, noting:

“It is unfortunate both organizations reversed course. I am disappointed that both have (so far) been silenced in this campaign, and hope that in the future each will return to the principles on which they were founded.”

By stepping aside, Common Cause and the League of Women Voters removed a major source of scrutiny for Gov. Newsom. Newsom’s office emphasized that Common Cause dropping opposition signaled that “even watchdogs see the game Trump is playing.”

The neutrality also sparked a broader political ripple. Other Democratic leaders, including Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, began considering similar redistricting strategies. Even former President Barack Obama followed suit, calling Newsom’s plan “a responsible approach” to California redistricting.

Internally, Common Cause faced intense debate. Staff circulated analyses raising concerns that California’s plan could split minority communities, lacked sufficient public input, and did not explicitly prevent future mid-decade redistricting. Yet the national leadership ultimately deemed the plan fair, prompting advisory board resignations.

Meanwhile, the League of Women Voters also faced pressure, including from Newsom’s former chief of staff, Jim DeBoo, who cautioned:

“Your brand is not to be used against your wishes. The greater dangers arise if Trump prevails.”

The League subsequently announced it would take no position, aligning with national and state chapters and warning against strategies that emulate authoritarian tactics.

Observers are watching these developments closely. Former State Sen. Sam Blakeslee, who served on the California Common Cause board, said in an interview:

“Common Cause’s pivot suggests it was co-opted by a political machine. Even groups historically able to withstand partisan pressures are now buckling. If the center cannot hold, there’s little hope to find our way back.”

The controversy underscores the challenges facing good-government organizations in a highly polarized political environment, especially as California redistricting remains a flashpoint in U.S. democracy.

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California Anti-Intimidation Bill Pits Sikh Americans Against Hindu Groups in Fight Over Diaspora Safety

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On a bright August morning, 60-year-old Gurtej Singh Cheema completed his daily prayers in his Sacramento home before heading to the California State Capitol. The retired clinical professor of internal medicine joined more than 150 Sikh Americans who had converged from across the state. Their goal: to voice support for the California anti-intimidation bill, legislation they believe is crucial to community safety.

California is home to about 250,000 Sikh Americans — roughly 40 percent of the U.S. Sikh population — with roots in the state dating back over a century. But the climate for diaspora communities has shifted. A spate of attacks and threats against Sikh activists in North America, which U.S. and Canadian officials have linked to Indian government operations, has left many on edge. Supporters say law enforcement still lacks training to identify “transnational repression,” a term used by the FBI for foreign governments’ efforts to intimidate or harm diaspora members inside the United States.

Story Highlights

Bill Overview: The California anti-intimidation bill mandates officer training to recognize and respond to transnational repression.
Supporters: Sikh Coalition, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, Jakara Movement, Hindus for Human Rights, Indian American Muslim Council, and the California Police Chiefs Association.
Opponents: Hindu American Foundation, Coalition of Hindus of North America, Bay Area Jewish Coalition, The Khalsa Today, and several county law-enforcement agencies.
Backdrop: Rising fears after alleged foreign-linked harassment, including high-profile cases in the U.S. and Canada.
Next Step: Bill returns to the California Senate for a final vote before heading to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk.

A Bill Shaped by Community Pressure

“The bill closes a critical gap in our public safety system and gives law enforcement the training they need to identify foreign interference when it happens in our neighborhoods,” said Democratic state senator Anna Caballero, who authored the measure.

Caballero represents California’s 14th Senate District, which has a significant Sikh population. She co-authored the bill with Assemblywoman Jasmeet Bains, California’s first Sikh Assembly member, and Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria.

The proposal would direct the state’s Office of Emergency Services to create specialized training for police officers to recognize and respond to transnational repression — from online trolling to in-person intimidation.

Community Lines Drawn

Several Sikh and multi-faith groups have endorsed the bill, including the Sikh Coalition, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, Jakara Movement, Hindus for Human Rights, and the Indian American Muslim Council. The California Police Chiefs Association also supports the measure.

But opposition is vocal. The Hindu American Foundation, the Coalition of Hindus of North America, the Bay Area Jewish Coalition, and even a Sikh organization, The Khalsa Today, have raised alarms. The Santa Clara Attorney’s Office and Riverside County Sheriff’s Office also object.

Critics argue the measure could unintentionally target Hindu Americans opposed to the Khalistan movement, a campaign to carve out a separate Sikh nation from India, and could institutionalize bias against Indian Americans.

‘Any Efforts That Help a Community Feel Safe’

Cheema, representing the Capital Sikh Center in Sacramento, said he came to testify because the stakes felt personal.

“Any efforts that help a community feel safe, and you are part of that community — naturally, you would support it,” he told reporters outside the hearing room.

Many attendees had driven overnight from Los Angeles, 385 miles away, or taken time off work to appear before the Assembly Appropriations Committee. Their presence underscored the urgency supporters feel around the California anti-intimidation bill.

Rising Fears of Foreign Interference

The FBI defines transnational repression as when foreign governments “intimidate, silence, coerce, harass or harm” members of diaspora and exile communities inside the United States.

The backdrop to the bill is striking. In 2023, Canada accused India of masterminding the assassination of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia, a charge New Delhi denies. Later that year, U.S. prosecutors said Indian operatives plotted to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a New York-based Sikh activist, in a scheme foiled by an FBI informant.

Several other Sikh activists have since received warnings from law enforcement about potential threats. Even Bains, the bill’s co-author, was reportedly threatened in August 2023 after California recognized the 1984 anti-Sikh violence in India as genocide.

Concerns Over Bias

Opponents such as Samir Kalra, managing director of the Hindu American Foundation, say the bill lacks adequate safeguards.

“I believe that they have not gone far enough in providing guardrails to ensure that law enforcement does not institutionalize biases against groups from specific countries of origin or with certain viewpoints on geopolitical issues,” Kalra said in an interview.

He noted that Hindu temples have been vandalized with pro-Khalistan slogans. “How can the Hindu American community feel safe reporting these incidents without fear of being accused of being a foreign agent or having law enforcement downplaying the vandalisms?” he asked.

Supporters counter that the training will be crafted by professionals, not activists, and will apply broadly to all foreign interference.

“The coalition of groups supporting includes both Sikh and Hindu organizations as well as Muslim, Kashmiri, Iranian, South Asian, immigrants’ rights, human rights, and law enforcement organizations,” said Harman Singh, executive director of the Sikh Coalition.

Scholars Weigh In

“Critics of other governments are all too routinely harassed, threatened, or even assaulted by foreign governments or their proxies within the U.S.,” said Rohit Chopra, professor of communication at Santa Clara University. “Even if the bill has some deterrent effect, which I believe it will, it will be well worth it.”

Stanford anthropology professor Thomas Blom Hansen said the legislation addresses real concerns about online surveillance and harassment but does not target any one country. “When an organization comes out strongly against such a bill, it almost feels like a preemptive admission — as if they see themselves as being implicated by what the bill seeks to prevent,” Hansen observed.

Looking Ahead

The California anti-intimidation bill has already cleared the Assembly and now returns to the Senate for a final vote. If passed, it will head to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk.

Back in Sacramento, Cheema says the legislation represents more than policy.

“I could be the next victim if the law enforcement in my community is not able to recognize foreign interference,” he said. “It doesn’t matter who is indulging in it or which country, I would naturally like my police officers to be aware of the threats.”

He added: “If any group feels threatened, then all sections of society should make efforts to protect their people. This reassures me that my voice is being heard.”

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Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass Backs Antonio Villaraigosa in Heated California Governor Race

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In a significant move in the California gubernatorial race, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced Tuesday her full support for former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, endorsing him as the next governor of California. The announcement came ahead of a joint press conference scheduled for 9:30 a.m. in Los Angeles, drawing attention from political circles across the state.

Story Highlights:

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass endorses former Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa for California governor.
Bass praises Villaraigosa’s long-term contributions to Los Angeles and the state.
Villaraigosa expresses gratitude and pledges collaboration for the welfare of Californians.
Key competitors in the governor race include Katie Porter, Xavier Becerra, Tony Thurmond, and Chad Bianco.
Bass and Villaraigosa will hold a joint press conference Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. in Los Angeles.
Political analysts note the potential influence of Bass’ endorsement in Los Angeles voter turnout.

Bass spoke highly of Villaraigosa’s long-standing commitment to both Los Angeles and California. “Antonio and I have known and worked together our entire adult life,” Bass said in a statement shared via the LA Times.

She continued, “I have seen up close the impact he has made not just for our city but for our entire state. Our country is at a crossroads and it’s vital that our state have a leader who will lead California into the future.”

Villaraigosa responded warmly to the endorsement, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for the state’s residents. “I am honored to have the endorsement of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass,” he said in a statement to City News Service.

He added, “I greatly appreciate her support in this campaign and look forward to collaborating with Mayor Bass for the health, safety and betterment of Angelenos and all Californians.”

The endorsement by Mayor Bass is expected to give Villaraigosa a notable boost in the race, particularly in Los Angeles, a key political stronghold. Political analysts say that Bass’ support could sway voters who value leadership experience and proven results in urban governance.

The California governor race remains highly competitive. Other prominent candidates include former Representative Katie Porter of Irvine, former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco. Each candidate brings a unique background and perspective to the contest, making the primary highly watched by voters and political observers alike.

With Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass endorsing Antonio Villaraigosa, the California governor race takes a decisive turn. As the campaign unfolds, all eyes will be on how this high-profile backing influences voters across the state.

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Proposition 50 Showdown: California Strikes Back Against Texas Gerrymandering

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Californians are stepping into one of the most consequential political battles in years — the debate over Proposition 50. At the center is the state’s congressional map and whether California should take extraordinary action to counter Texas’s mid-cycle redistricting plan, which is projected to hand Republicans five additional U.S. House seats.

What would normally be a low-profile special election has quickly escalated into a national flashpoint. Governor Gavin Newsom (D) signed the legislation authorizing the November vote on Prop 50 just two weeks ago. Since then, mailers, campaign ads, and digital spots — mostly in opposition — have already started flooding the public space.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Proposition 50 heads to California’s November ballot, testing voters on whether to suspend independent redistricting until 2030.
Texas redistricting plan projected to add five Republican House seats, drawing national concern.
Gerrymandering debate reignites as critics warn of anti-democratic practices.
2029 presidential certification seen as the larger political battleground.
Democratic self-defense vs. partisan retaliation remains the core argument around Prop 50.

A Redistricting Battle With National Stakes

The fight over congressional maps is not new. The modern era of partisan gerrymandering took shape with the launch of Project REDMAP in 2010, a Republican-led initiative to capture state legislatures and redraw districts in their favor.

The results spoke for themselves. By 2012, Republicans won a 33-seat margin in the House of Representatives, despite receiving only 49 percent of the national vote.

That playbook, critics say, is now being used again. Texas lawmakers recently pushed through new congressional lines to benefit Republicans and strengthen Donald Trump’s position heading into future elections.

Trump himself was blunt:

“We are entitled to five more seats,” he declared.

But opponents argue that in a functioning democracy, no one is “entitled” to political power. Representation, they emphasize, must be earned at the ballot box, not engineered through district maps.

What Makes Proposition 50 Different?

The California Proposition 50 campaign frames the issue in stark terms: Texas Republicans changed their map through hardball tactics, even threatening Democratic lawmakers to force the plan through. California, by contrast, is asking voters directly whether the state should temporarily suspend its independent redistricting commission until 2030 to counterbalance Texas’s move.

Supporters describe Prop 50 as “democratic self-defense,” not partisan retaliation. They argue that ignoring Texas’s actions would amount to unilateral disarmament.

As one advocate put it:

“You cannot look the other way while condemning gerrymandering in theory. Either you defend democracy or you surrender it.”

Opponents, however, see it differently. They warn that any suspension of independent redistricting risks undermining California’s reputation for fair maps. They call it a dangerous precedent that could erode public trust, regardless of intentions.

Beyond Maps: The 2029 Presidential Question

The stakes go well beyond congressional representation. Control of the House in 2026 could determine the outcome of the 2029 presidential certification process, when electoral votes are formally counted.

The concern among Democrats is that Republicans, led by JD Vance in the Senate, could attempt to contest or manipulate the vote count if they control the chamber. Ensuring Democratic control of the House, supporters say, is the best safeguard for a peaceful transition of power.

A Referendum on Democracy Itself

For many political observers, Proposition 50 has grown into more than a California ballot measure. It is increasingly seen as a national referendum on democracy, redistricting, and how far states should go to defend fair representation.

Some Democrats are calling for Governor Newsom to challenge Trump to a debate on Prop 50. While Trump is unlikely to accept, the idea reflects how far the issue has moved beyond California’s borders. Others suggest pairing national figures in a televised debate — such as Liz Cheney against Kevin McCarthy, a leading opponent of the measure.

Supporters argue that this fight could energize voters across the country who are frustrated with gerrymandering and seeking a concrete way to push back.

As one strategist noted:

“Enough protests. Enough hand-wringing. This is the fight people are ready to have.”

On November 4, Californians will not just decide the fate of Proposition 50. They will be casting a vote that could shape the balance of power in Congress, influence the 2029 presidential certification, and set the tone for America’s broader struggle over democracy.

The outcome will resonate far beyond the state’s borders.

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Disneyland Diplomacy Turns Sour as Newsom Slams Vance Over Immigration Woes

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A weekend family trip by Vice President JD Vance to Disneyland has spiraled into a sharp political face-off with California Governor Gavin Newsom, who accused the administration of tearing migrant families apart even as Vance enjoyed family time in the Golden State. As immigration raids shake California—leaving one dead, children detained, and protests erupting—Newsom’s words struck a nerve. With troops on city streets and child labor probes underway, the cheerful amusement park backdrop now clashes with a stormy national debate, where family smiles meet fierce scrutiny over federal immigration moves.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

California Gov. Gavin Newsom publicly criticizes VP JD Vance’s Disneyland trip amid immigration raids
Vance responds briefly without addressing family separation concerns
ICE operations on two California farms lead to hundreds of detentions and one death
Ten undocumented minors, including eight unaccompanied, discovered in Camarillo
Federal authorities investigating potential child labor violations
National Guard and Marines deployed to Los Angeles to support ICE amid protests
Newsom denounces military presence and enforcement tactics in California

In a moment where politics intersected sharply with personal leisure, California Governor Gavin Newsom and Vice President JD Vance found themselves locked in a public exchange over immigration policy, triggered by Vance’s recent family trip to Disneyland in Anaheim.

Vice President Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha and their two children, was seen enjoying the popular California theme park over the weekend. However, what might have been a quiet family getaway quickly gained political weight after Governor Newsom took to social media to criticize the administration’s ongoing immigration enforcement actions, particularly those impacting migrant families.

While not naming specific events, Newsom’s post drew a sharp contrast between Vance’s family moments and those families being separated across the country due to recent immigration raids.

“Hope you enjoy your family time, @JDVance,” Newsom wrote in a pointed message on X (formerly Twitter).
“The families you’re tearing apart certainly won’t.”

Vance, for his part, kept his response terse and direct, sidestepping the governor’s broader criticism.

“Had a great time, thanks,” the vice president replied, neither elaborating on the immigration policy nor responding to the accusations of family separation.

The exchange came at a time when tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in California were already running high. Vance’s visit followed closely on the heels of controversial ICE raids at two agricultural sites in the state—operations that saw the detention of several hundred individuals suspected of being undocumented immigrants.

The raids, which took place at farms in Central and Southern California, have drawn sharp criticism from immigrant rights groups and sparked public protests in several cities, including Anaheim—the very location of the vice president’s vacation. Demonstrators held signs and chanted outside the amusement park, objecting not only to the presence of Vance but also to what they described as a widening humanitarian crisis.

Federal officials confirmed that one person was killed during the operations, and several others sustained critical injuries. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott disclosed that ten minors without legal immigration status were found at a farm in Camarillo—eight of them unaccompanied by adults. Authorities have now opened a formal investigation into the farm’s labor practices, citing concerns over potential child labor violations.

“The presence of unaccompanied minors at these sites is alarming,” Scott said in a brief statement.
“Our teams are working to ensure the safety of these children while we investigate possible labor law violations.”

The timing of the raids was not lost on the public or the press. For weeks, activists across Southern California have been holding demonstrations against federal immigration enforcement, particularly targeting businesses and farms believed to employ undocumented workers. These protests intensified after reports surfaced of harsh conditions and aggressive detainment practices.

In response, the administration ordered the deployment of National Guard troops and Marines to assist federal agents in Los Angeles and surrounding regions. This move drew a strong rebuke from Governor Newsom, who argued that militarizing immigration enforcement only deepens public mistrust and fear among immigrant communities.

“Deploying troops on our own streets in response to peaceful protests and family workers sends the wrong message,” Newsom previously stated.
“This is not who we are as a state.”

With the debate now playing out at the national level—amplified by the involvement of the vice president—the focus returns to the broader implications of immigration policy, enforcement strategy, and the treatment of families caught in its grip.

As politics and policy continue to collide with personal moments and public optics, this latest flashpoint between state leadership and federal power underscores just how deeply immigration remains embedded in America’s social and political fabric.

What began as a simple family retreat for Vice President JD Vance has swiftly unfolded into a national flashpoint, laying bare the deepening divide over immigration enforcement in the United States. Governor Gavin Newsom’s sharp remarks have reignited scrutiny of federal policies that many argue fracture families and fuel unrest. As protests swell and investigations unfold, the clash between leisure and leadership serves as a stark reminder: in today’s America, even a vacation can stir political tempests when the lives of vulnerable communities hang in the balance.

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