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Newsom Responds to Republican Lawmaker’s Bill to Split up California

The state Assembly Republican leader filed legislation for at least 35 counties to form a new state. Congress would have to approve.
Newsom Responds to Republican Lawmaker’s Bill to Split up California
Gov. Gavin Newsom, along with local congressional representatives, state officials, and supporters, announces a bid to redraw California's congressional maps in Los Angeles on Aug. 14, 2025. Mike Blake/Reuters
Jill McLaughlin
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Gov. Gavin Newsom criticized a Republican state leader for seeking to split up California in the wake of the governor’s redistricting effort to shrink conservative representation.

Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher of Yuba City in Northern California introduced a resolution in the state Legislature on Aug. 27 to break off 35 inland counties. California has 58 counties.
Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
Author
Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.