Governor Newsom delivers State of State letter marking California’s 175th anniversary

On the 175th anniversary of California's statehood, Governor Gavin Newsom delivered his 2025 State of the State letter to the Legislature from the Governor’s Mansion in Sacramento. The address highlighted California’s role as a leader in culture, innovation, and democratic values, emphasizing its diverse population as a source of strength.

In his letter, Newsom referenced ongoing challenges faced by the state, including opposition from the federal government and recent natural disasters. He stated: "Today, as California celebrates the 175th anniversary of its admission to the Union, our country faces an uncertain future and pernicious threats to the foundation of our democracy. As I write to you, California is menaced by a federal administration that dismantles public services, punishes allies across the globe, and sweeps the rule of law into the gutter. They have thrown away decades of progress on clean air and water, sent the U.S. military into the streets of our cities, and used extortion in an attempt to bully our businesses and world-class public institutions. But California, this uniquely blessed state, is standing up. Graced by God with bountiful resources and made greater by our spirit of openness and courage, I have no doubt we will emerge stronger — but only if we fight together and hold fast to our values. Friends and colleagues, the state of the state is strong, fully committed to defending democracy, and resolved to never bend."

Newsom described how Californians responded after severe natural disasters at the start of 2025: "California began the year with one of the worst natural disasters in American history. But look no further for proof of our resilient spirit than the fortitude Californians displayed when hurricane-force winds swept through Los Angeles in early January. Despite great personal danger, our firefighters, law enforcement personnel, and other first responders demonstrated tireless resolve. They saved countless lives. As we mourn the people lost in Altadena, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and beyond, we take solace in the heroic way those communities stood up in the aftermath. They moved with a singular purpose to support businesses, schools, houses of worship, and displaced families. At the same time, federal, state, and local officials mobilized with historic speed and scale in the days and weeks after the fires. Through executive orders waiving red tape, the state paved the way for debris-removal crews to move quickly through damaged areas and streamlined permits to speed rebuilding. Homes are now rising. Our commitment will not waver; we will be there until the last residents return and local businesses thrive again."

The governor also addressed tensions with federal authorities over policy disputes ranging from education access to environmental standards: "Even as fires still burned...we have filed 41 lawsuits on behalf of...California to challenge federal actions that threaten to drive up prices...We’re fighting for equal access to education and health care..."

He criticized recent deployments by federal forces within California: "In June...the President deployed...National Guard...in Los Angeles...as masked officers...snatched people off streets...Through courts—and raised voices—California has resisted this dangerous...assault on our values..."

Newsom outlined economic initiatives focused on workforce development from early childhood through higher education: "From cradle to career...That starts by ensuring that opportunity is not limited by your ZIP code....As of this school year..., universal transitional kindergarten will be available..." He noted efforts such as tuition-free community college for first-time students under California College Promise.

Highlighting economic growth driven by innovation sectors like technology manufacturing and green energy investment programs such as CalCompetes tax incentives since 2013 were mentioned as key contributors.

Environmental policy was also discussed at length: "No other place in country has built a stronger green economy than California....More than 2 million zero-emission vehicles have been sold..." The governor cited infrastructure improvements including electrified rail lines between major cities.

Efforts toward government modernization included digital service upgrades at agencies like DMV along with new platforms for public engagement such as Engaged California.

Addressing affordability issues around housing costs remained central: “But one of our longest-standing affordability crises is housing....We’ve invested tens of billions in affordable housing...” Other measures include expanded tax credits for working families.

Concluding his letter Newsom wrote: “Over 175 years…we have drawn pioneers…who were given capital…and freedom…We are facing a federal administration built on incompetence…This is not first time this state has endured darkness…Just as we have before…we will emerge stronger…”