Newsom's Responses to California's Challenges and Political Attacks

California Governor Gavin Newsom defended his state's economic performance and urged Americans not to count it out despite a population decline and budget deficit of nearly $32 billion. Newsom cited reduced births, immigration, an increase in deaths, and people moving to other states as reasons for the population slump. He also addressed complaints about the state's high cost of living and taxes, stating that middle-class families pay less than the majority of states in America. Newsom touted California's economic success, calling it the "temple" of the U.S. economy and urging Americans to remain open to its opportunities.