Newsom Attacked by Teachers with Ad Over California’s ‘Monumental’ School Crisis

By: Georgia | Published: May 29, 2024

California Governor Gavin Newsom initially proposed a reduction in public school funding by $12 billion to manage the state’s budget shortfall.

In response, the California Teacher’s Association (CTA) launched an advertising campaign that accuses the proposed cuts of causing a “monumental crisis” for education. The ad describes a grim future with “tens of billions of dollars in cuts to public education over the next three years.”

The Union's Stance on Budget Cuts

Despite Governor Newsom’s subsequent reversal on his decision to cut school funding, the CTA continues to air their critical ads until the legislative approval of the new agreement.

Protesters holding signs supporting teachers, walking on a city street

Source: California Teachers Association/Facebook

This ongoing campaign signifies the union’s determination to hold the Governor accountable until all changes are officially enacted.

Details from the Controversial Ad

The CTA’s 30-second advertisement paints a dire picture, claiming the budget cuts would result in “bigger class sizes, thousands of teachers laid off, essential resources like counselors, nurses, and special education aides, gone.”

Two women smiling and raising their hands on stage at a California Teachers Association event

Source: California Teachers Association/Facebook

This message aims to rally public and legislative support to counteract the proposed budget adjustments.

A Call for Legislative Action

The ad also urges California residents to influence their legislators and Governor Newsom to pass a budget that protects the schools.

Governor Gavin Newsom speaking at a podium with a Diego's Wheel cap, gesturing with his hand

Source: CAgovernor/X

The narrator’s plea, “Tell lawmakers and Gov. Newsom to pass a state budget that protects public schools for our students and communities,” underscores the campaign’s goal to mobilize community action.

Union's Response to Newsom's Revised Proposal

Following significant backlash, Governor Newsom withdrew his proposal to cut education funding.

An image of Gavin Newsom in the center, besides him are various people dressed in business attire

Source: CAgovernor/X

CTA President David B. Goldberg responded, saying, “As always, we will closely monitor any attempt to weaken the constitutional protections behind the Proposition 98 funding guarantee.” The union remains vigilant, ensuring the new commitments are upheld.

Clarification of Proposition 98

The revised agreement between Governor Newsom and the CTA centers on Proposition 98, a 1988 law that guarantees minimum funding for public schools.

Gavin Newsom speaking at a press conference in a blue suit, with American and Californian flags in the background

Source: CAgovernor/X

The agreement promises a more favorable assessment of this law, aiming to provide an additional $5.5 billion to schools in upcoming years.

Governor Newsom’s Remarks on the Agreement

Governor Newsom described the new agreement as “a smart and balanced policy solution that incorporates feedback from California’s educators,” according to a statement he made to Fox News Digital.

Governor Gavin Newsom walking and talking with a group of diverse professionals in a large, unfinished building space

Source: CAgovernor/X

He emphasized that the agreement ensures no educational cuts and maintains budget neutrality.

Unresolved Issues Remain

Despite reaching an agreement, a spokesperson for Governor Newsom indicated that some policy differences with the CTA still exist.

Source: California Teachers Association/Facebook

This statement suggests that while a compromise has been reached, some underlying tensions between the state government and the teachers’ union persist.

Criticism from Conservative Perspectives

Lance Christensen, Vice President of the California Policy Center, criticized the CTA’s approach, saying, “Putting Gov. Gavin Newsom on full-blast because he was trying to modestly fix a budget he broke is tantamount to a temper tantrum, not honest negotiation.”

Gavin Newsom, dressed in a white shirt and blue tie, speaking informally to a small group of people in an indoor setting

Source: CAgovernor/X

His comments reflect a conservative critique of the union’s tactics.

Broader Budgetary Impacts

Governor Newsom’s revised budget proposal includes cuts beyond education, affecting state operations and climate programs.

Gavin Newsom smiling and signing a document at a desk surrounded by a diverse group of people applauding

Source: CAgovernor/X

His proposal aims to align with the Legislative Analyst Office’s (LAO) projected state deficit, which forecasts significant budget challenges through 2025-26.

Financial Influence of the CTA

The CTA has demonstrated its political influence by contributing significant amounts to Governor Newsom’s campaigns, including $250,000 to his Yes on Prop 1 committee and $1.8 million to his anti-recall campaign.

An event stage for the California Teachers Association with promotional banners

Source: California Teachers Association/Facebook

These contributions highlight the union’s substantial role in state politics.

The Future of the Budget Agreement

As California awaits the legislative passage of the new budget agreement, the full impact of these negotiations on the state’s financial and educational landscape remains uncertain.

Governor Gavin Newsom interacting with young students in a classroom setting, engaging with educational toys and activities

Source: CAgovernor/X

Both Governor Newsom and the CTA have made their positions clear, but the ultimate consequences of their agreement will unfold in the coming months.