California Democrats Push Back Against Newsom’s Funding Proposal
SACRAMENTO, California — Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent proposal to allocate $20 million in funding to a small private arts college in San Francisco has sparked controversy among Democratic state lawmakers. The California College of the Arts, which counts tech CEO Jensen Huang among its backers, received significant donations totaling $45 million just two weeks prior.
All four Democratic members of an education finance budget subcommittee voted against Newsom’s request, highlighting concerns over the optics of prioritizing funding for a private institution while proposing cuts and deferrals for public universities in the state.
Divided Opinions Within the Democratic Party
Assembly Education Chair Al Muratsuchi, a Democrat and candidate for state superintendent, criticized the selective funding, emphasizing the need for equitable distribution of resources among educational institutions. However, State Senator Scott Wiener, who chairs the Senate Budget Committee, voiced support for Newsom’s proposal, citing broader challenges in federal education funding under the previous administration.
The committee’s decision now moves to the full Assembly budget committee for further deliberation before the final budget is passed in June. Newsom is expected to present a revised budget plan in May to address the ongoing debate.
Unique Rationale for Supporting the Arts College
Amanpreet Singh from Newsom’s Department of Finance defended the proposal during a hearing, emphasizing the distinctive programs offered by the California College of the Arts compared to public universities in the region. The funding aims to bolster the institution’s financial stability and prevent further enrollment declines, which have plagued the school in recent years.
David Howse, the college’s president, outlined plans to utilize the funding for staffing and infrastructure improvements, underscoring the institution’s broader impact on the community despite being a private entity.
Implications for Higher Education Funding
Assemblymember David Alvarez, reflecting on the committee’s decision, reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to public education and raised concerns over the relatively modest operating deficit of the arts college compared to structural deficits in other institutions. The ongoing challenges facing higher education in California, including declining enrollment and rising costs, underscore the need for strategic investments to ensure long-term sustainability.
As the debate continues, the funding proposal for the California College of the Arts signifies a broader conversation around educational priorities and resource allocation within the state.
