Updated
Updated · POLITICO · Jun 2
California Braces for 16-Year Power Shift After Newsom, Eyeing Stronger Legislative Role
Updated
Updated · POLITICO · Jun 2

California Braces for 16-Year Power Shift After Newsom, Eyeing Stronger Legislative Role

3 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Jun 2
  • Sacramento is already planning for a post-Newsom power realignment, with lawmakers expecting the governor’s exit to open more room for the Legislature to set California’s agenda.
  • 16 years of Jerry Brown and Gavin Newsom dominating state politics have left legislators arguing that the next governor will arrive with less Capitol experience and a steeper learning curve.
  • Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris said a new governor could give lawmakers an opening to drive policy more than they have under Newsom’s eight years in office.
  • Assemblymember Nick Schultz said none of the likely contenders matches Newsom’s eight years as lieutenant governor or prior gubernatorial experience, reinforcing expectations of a broader power redistribution.
With veteran lawmakers aiming to take charge, how can a new governor effectively lead the state?
Can California's legislature solve a budget crisis while seizing more power from the next governor?
Is a power shift to the legislature the right solution for California's complex modern problems?