Concerns Over California’s Free Diaper Program
The “free” diapers that Governor Gavin Newsom attempted to distribute are projected to cost taxpayers over three times more than purchasing them at Costco.
One expert in the baby product industry suggested that the actual cost could be eight to ten times higher.
This initiative isn’t merely about providing new mothers with 400 free diapers. Rather, it seems to be a way for Newsom to channel millions of taxpayer dollars into the nonprofit organization Baby2Baby, which is associated with individuals on the board of California Partners Project. This organization was co-founded by Newsom’s wife, Jennifer Siebel Ocasio Rodham Newsom.
As an old adage goes, math doesn’t always add up…
The Los Angeles Times reports that in the first year, the state intends to distribute around 40 million diapers.
Moreover, the initial cost of this initiative is estimated at $20 million.
This suggests the state would effectively pay 50 cents per diaper.
However, there are not many Costco locations in California that offer diapers at just 16 cents each.
So, why is Newsom having Baby2Baby pay 50 cents per diaper when he could simply give maternity wards Costco coupons for new mothers for 400 free diapers?
It’s worth noting that Baby2Baby’s top executives are connections of Newsom’s wife.
This scenario highlights how government relationships can operate. Politicians often leverage taxpayer-funded programs to benefit their allies, and initiatives that seem charitable may mask deeper issues of corruption.
Considering it, it’s likely that Baby2Baby purchases their diapers at a price significantly lower than 16 cents each. Although operational costs exist, 50 cents per diaper seems quite steep. For context, Amazon sells them for less than that, which could lead to financial surplus. What could be done with that extra funding? Perhaps it could support campaign financing or other less transparent benefits for politicians and their families.
It could be even worse. An industry insider mentioned taxpayers might be covering eight to ten times more for these diapers.
Peter Bassios, the founder of an organic baby formula company, pointed out that California’s expenditure of $20 million to supply 400 diapers to 100,000 newborns equates to 50 cents per diaper. He noted that at Costco, comparable quality can be found at 12 to 15 cents each, ultimately costing around $48 to $60 for 400 diapers. This means the state appears to be spending significantly more.
This reflects the choice made by California voters, and it’s indeed noteworthy.
On a related note, I revisited the 1974 film Harry and Tonto recently. It depicts an elderly man traveling across the country after New York City condemns his long-time home. Upon reaching California, it is portrayed as an affordable, safe, and stunning place, contrasting sharply with the deteriorating state of New York during a time when California was more conservative. Today, things seem quite different under Democratic leadership.
It’s unfortunate, truly a loss!
