Democrat Attacks Newsom
Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna is intensifying a public dispute with fellow Democrat and California Gov. Gavin Newsom, raising serious questions about how taxpayer money is being spent in the nation’s most populous state.
Khanna, who represents a Silicon Valley district, said he has heard growing frustration from constituents over what they see as unchecked government spending, weak oversight, and potential fraud within California’s massive budget.
In a social media post, Khanna said concerns about “fraud, waste, and abuse” in Sacramento have flooded his inbox, reflecting broader public anxiety about accountability in state government.
The congressman announced plans to push for formal hearings into California programs he claims have resulted in improper payments and eligibility errors. He also said he will pursue legislation calling for a full, independent audit of the state’s finances — a move likely to intensify tensions with Democratic leadership in Sacramento.
Khanna has previously alleged that California officials mismanaged as much as $72 billion in taxpayer funds, a claim that has drawn sharp denials from the governor’s office but continues to resonate with voters worried about rising taxes and cost-of-living pressures.
While Khanna has supported higher taxes on wealthy Americans, he acknowledged that increased government revenue must be paired with transparency and strict oversight.
“If people are asked to contribute more, they deserve a government that is responsible, accountable, and transparent,” Khanna said.
The clash comes as both Khanna and Newsom are widely viewed as potential contenders for the 2028 presidential race, adding a national political dimension to what began as a dispute over California’s budget priorities.
Newsom has criticized Khanna for backing a proposed ballot initiative known as the 2026 Billionaire Tax Act, which the governor opposes. The measure would impose a one-time 5 percent tax on billionaires’ total wealth in California, with the revenue earmarked for state-run healthcare programs, including Medi-Cal.
A spokesperson for Newsom rejected Khanna’s claims, emphasizing that the governor takes fraud allegations seriously — while also questioning the accuracy of the accusations.
“The governor believes in accountability, but also in getting the facts right,” said Izzy Gardon, Newsom’s communications director. “We look forward to reviewing these ideas as more details become available.”
As California continues to grapple with budget shortfalls, higher taxes, and mounting public concern over government efficiency, the dispute highlights growing divisions within the Democratic Party — and raises renewed questions about whether state leaders are doing enough to protect taxpayers.
