Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher (R–East Nicolaus) has introduced Assembly Joint Resolution 23, aiming to address what he describes as the ongoing neglect of rural and inland California. The resolution responds to a recent redistricting process led by Democrats, which Gallagher argues would diminish the political influence of rural communities.
AJR 23 proposes creating a new state from 35 inland California counties. This region would include over 10 million residents, making it one of the ten most populous states in the country. The proposed area encompasses most of Northern California, the Sierra Nevada, the Central Valley, and the Inland Empire.
“California is run by politicians who don’t care because they don’t have to,” said Gallagher. “They exploit our water, suppress our energy, skyrocket our costs, and kill our jobs.”
Gallagher stated that people from regions such as the North State, Central Valley, and Inland Empire are experiencing increasing hardship and unaffordability. He said these areas have been overlooked for too long and now face further loss of representation.
“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.”
The resolution marks an initial step toward seeking statehood for inland counties. Gallagher emphasized that forming a new state is necessary to ensure proper attention for these communities.
“I have 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 added: “We will not be subject to a state that deprives us of a fair voice,” Gallagher said. “Gavin, let my people go.”
Assembly Joint Resolution 23 formally expresses California’s consent under Article IV, Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution for inland counties to form a new U.S. state if Congress approves.
Sacramento made their choice. Now we’re making ours.
