Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher (R) introduced legislation to split the state of California in response to redistricting efforts that would “silence rural voices and rig the political system against them forever.”
The bill states that the creation of a new state “has long been a fundamental principle of American democracy and is consistent with the principles of federalism as outlined in the United States Constitution.” It adds that dividing California would “better serve the citizens by fostering governance that is more responsive and representative.”
“California is run by politicians who don’t care because they don’t have to. They exploit our water, suppress our energy, skyrocket our costs, and kill our jobs,” he said. “Whether you are from the North State, Central Valley, or the Inland Empire, life has become harder and completely unaffordable. We have been overlooked for far too long, and now they are trying to rip away what little representation we have left.”
Gallagher added that he has “come to see that the only way we can obtain proper attention is by pursuing our own statehood.”
“With this measure, we will begin the first step of that process,” he declared, asserting, “We will not be subject to a state that deprives us of a fair voice. Gavin, let my people go.”
In response to the measure, a spokesperson for Governor Gavin Newsom said, “A person who seeks to split California does not deserve to hold office in the Golden State. This is a stunt that will go nowhere.”
