Trump Administration’s Withdrawal of Monument Status Provokes Response from Newsom

California’s Governor Gavin Newsom has expressed his frustration with the Trump administration following the decision to rescind the national monument status of two natural areas in the state, protections that were previously established by former President Joe Biden.

In response to potential changes affecting the Chuckwara and Satitra Highlands national monuments, which includes areas near Joshua Tree National Monument, Newsom remarked, “This is just a trivial thing. Grow up.” His office further commented on social media, saying, “If it’s the day that ends with Y, it’s another day of Trump’s war in California.”

The Justice Department under Trump released a memo indicating that powers related to national monuments could be reversed by subsequent administrations, citing past examples where similar actions occurred.

The recent ruling overturned a 1938 stance by former Attorney General Homer Cummings, which stated that the president had no authority to abolish such protective designations.

Currently, there are concerns about the implications of having large areas of federally managed land, especially in terms of future economic development.

The Justice Department also stated that the revocation of previous monument designations hasn’t been legally challenged under the Antiquities Act of 1906, raising questions about ongoing protections.

Moreover, Newsom recently took to social media to humorously reference Trump, spoofing a mock advertisement during a podcast appearance. He joked about potential consequences, saying, “I’ll work against the ICE [the agency] deporting people from the country.” He added a light-hearted note, remarking, “Trump’s phone arrests a 15% off promo code.”

Additionally, Newsom criticized Trump’s social media activity for allegedly inciting violence in Democratic areas and using inflammatory rhetoric to “militarize our cities.” He countered assertions from Republicans that focus should instead be directed at crime rates in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles.

In a contentious exchange, the Governor pointed out that Shaw Me, a location mentioned by Republican representatives, actually has a murder rate significantly higher than California’s. He accused them of promoting a narrative that misrepresents the realities in his state.

Finally, Newsom expressed concern over the implications of federal land policies, arguing that these discussions are far from trivial. He noted the adverse impact of energy policies on Californians and criticized the previous administration for failing to understand the necessity of responsible resource management.