For once, I agree with Gavin Newsom. At yesterday’s press conference, he called the outcome of our court case against him “a profoundly important decision.” Of course, he added that he’s “confident” in his “legal standing and legal position” on appeal – which is exactly what he said before losing at trial. (Video clip here)
Newsom’s press conference was conducted remotely, as at the moment he is in quarantine. By the time he emerges he’ll have company at the Capitol: on Dec. 7, the Legislature finally returns to be sworn in for the new term.
Yesterday was the deadline for legislators to submit a customary “first bill.” But with all of the current madness, I had to submit five:
1. Opening Businesses: My bill prohibits state agencies from revoking any business license for non-compliance with shutdown orders without first proving the business was actually a cause of widespread transmission.
2. Opening Schools: Assures every California child is given the option of full in-person instruction without further delay.
3. Reforming the Emergency Services Act: Provides that a State of Emergency expires after 60 days, rather than continuing indefinitely.
4. Repealing AB 5: Repeals the rest of AB 5 now that voters have overwhelmingly rejected this corrupt law for Uber and Lyft drivers.
5. Electing our Senator: has Newsom immediately set a special election in the event of a U.S. Senate vacancy, rather than choosing a crony to complete the term.
Of course, the Legislature should have been working this whole time. I proposed three months ago that we remain in session to provide a modicum of oversight of Newsom and get the state open. My entire caucus signed my proposal, but the Legislature’s leaders preferred an extended vacation. (Video coverage here).
One Legislator even attacked me in a speech on the Assembly Floor, claiming my insistence that we actually work was “a clever scheme to continue earning per diem.” In fact, I’ve declined to accept the per diem every year. Incredibly, it was just raised to $211 per day.
Newsom sees his one-man year lasting well into 2021, or even beyond that. We need to keep pressure coming from all fronts – the courts, the Legislature, the local level, and most importantly, We the People. If we can stop him, it could be the dawning of a new day in California.
I wish you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving.