California is taking unprecedented action to safeguard its progressive policies as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office. The state legislature is kicking off a special session to bolster legal defenses against anticipated federal challenges, with a proposed $25 million litigation fund at the heart of the effort.

Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat who has been a vocal critic of Trump, is spearheading the initiative. The special session, which begins on December 2, 2024, is aimed at protecting California's values, including civil rights, reproductive freedom, climate action, and the protection of immigrant families.

The proposed $25 million litigation fund will be used to beef up the California Department of Justice and other state agencies' legal resources. This will enable the state to swiftly respond to potential unlawful federal actions and defend against federal lawsuits targeting state laws and policies.



During Trump's first term, California sued his administration more than 120 times, with a success rate of over 86%. The state's aggressive stance against federal overreach has proven effective, as seen in victories that preserved California's stricter vehicle-emission standards and protected the legal status of migrants brought to the US as children.

However, California faces new political and fiscal realities this time around. The state's budget is "roughly balanced" but has little room for additional spending, according to a projection released by the state's legislative analyst last month. Moreover, the 2024 election exposed growing discontent with California's liberal policies and high cost of living, with Trump garnering 38% of the vote, the best showing for a Republican presidential candidate in the state since 2004.



To address these challenges, California is prioritizing its legal challenges, focusing on key areas such as climate change, immigration, and reproductive rights. The state anticipates several federal actions or policies that may require immediate legal response, including immigration policies, environmental regulations, reproductive rights, and disaster relief.

In order to ensure the effective use of the $25 million litigation fund, California will prioritize cases based on the severity of potential harm to the state's policies and residents. The Attorney General's office, which led over 120 lawsuits against the first Trump administration, will be a key beneficiary of the funds. Regular progress reports and performance metrics will be established to track the impact of litigation efforts and ensure accountability.

California is also preparing for potential retaliation from the Trump administration by allocating up to $25 million for a litigation fund. This proactive measure will help the state defend its stance on civil rights, climate change, immigration, and abortion access initiatives. By bolstering its legal resources, California aims to protect the interests and values of its residents as it prepares for a potential legal battle against the incoming administration.

In conclusion, California's special session to safeguard the state from potential federal interference under the incoming Trump administration is a bold and necessary move. By allocating a proposed $25 million litigation fund, the state is taking proactive measures to protect its progressive policies and the well-being of its residents. As the special session begins, all eyes will be on California as it braces for what lies ahead.