San Diego City Wire

California Senate Republicans have voiced concerns regarding Governor Gavin Newsom's proposed state budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, which amounts to $322 billion. Senator Roger Niello, vice-chair of the Senate Committee on Budget, expressed apprehension about the financial strategy outlined by Newsom. "The governor only measures success in dollars spent, rather than how well those dollars were spent to improve the lives of Californians," Niello stated. He warned that without changes to spending, the projected $2 billion deficit could increase significantly.

Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones also criticized the budget plan, particularly focusing on a $7 billion withdrawal from the state's Rainy Day Fund. "Only Gavin Newsom could raid over $7 billion from our Rainy Day savings and have the audacity to call it a 'surplus,'" Jones remarked. He emphasized that rebuilding parts of Los Angeles' infrastructure due to recent fires should take precedence over new spending.

The proposed budget includes an additional $18 billion compared to the previous year's enacted budget. Senate Republicans are urging caution, referencing advice from a nonpartisan legislative analyst who foresees potential double-digit deficits if current spending trends continue.

While Governor Newsom claims his proposal maintains a balanced budget, he plans to use $7.1 billion from the Rainy Day Fund for spending purposes. This proposal serves as an initial draft for further discussion before finalization by June 15.