Chico Times

SACRAMENTO – Assembly Republicans announced today that they have gathered over 6,500 signatures on a petition demanding Democrats cease political maneuvers affecting public safety. The petition has pressured Democrats to remove contentious amendments from their public safety legislation, but the broader message appears to be lost on Governor Gavin Newsom and his allies.

Despite months of insisting against changes to Proposition 47, Governor Newsom recently unveiled a competing ballot measure described as lenient on crime. This move is seen by critics as an attempt to confuse voters and undermine a citizen-led initiative, potentially jeopardizing public safety.

"Californians can see right through Newsom’s political games and are fighting back against efforts to mislead and disenfranchise them," stated Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher (R-Yuba City). "Democrats know their constituents want an opportunity to vote on the initiative without interference. Direct democracy scares them—and so they’re going to try their best to thwart voters and preserve the status quo."

Assembly Republicans have vowed to continue opposing what they view as misleading tactics designed to prevent Californians from voting on the qualified initiative.