California Lawmaker Advocates for New State Amid Dissatisfaction

A newly elected representative from California is reigniting discussions about forming a new state for residents who feel overlooked by the central government in Sacramento.

Rep. James Gallagher, who recently took office representing California’s expansive 1st Congressional District, suggests that local governments should “seriously consider” their status following the controversial redistricting initiative known as Proposition 50.

“I think we need to reflect on whether we truly want to remain part of a nation like this,” Gallagher remarked in an interview. “Perhaps our desire for self-determination should be explored.”

The Republican lawmaker mentioned that the U.S. Constitution offers a pathway to establish a new state. He proposed starting with support from counties and local governments, eventually seeking endorsement from both the California Legislature and Congress.

When asked if he intends to advance this effort nationally, Gallagher indicated that while it won’t happen overnight, it’s an important conversation to have. “If we continue to make progress, we might consider introducing federal legislation to obtain federal consent,” he said.

He didn’t specify which counties might aim to separate from California, but noted that “six counties have already expressed their support” by signing prior resolutions.

This initiative echoes a long-standing movement known as the “Jefferson State Movement,” which advocates for the establishment of a new state primarily in the northern part of California and southern Oregon. Proponents of this movement argue that rural regions are being overshadowed by urban areas.

Traditionally, supporters have included residents of counties like Modoc, Lassen, and Siskiyou, though it’s unclear if these counties are the ones Gallagher envisions joining the new state.

Many conservatives in these regions have voiced feelings of neglect from Sacramento, claiming their interests are often sacrificed in favor of policies that cater to urban constituents—everything from water rights to timber revenues and agricultural practices.

This discontent has grown, especially after the passage of Proposition 50, which some see as diminishing the voting power of Republican and rural voters in predominantly Democratic regions, including affluent Marin County.

Gallagher framed this debate as a matter of representation. “If you’re prioritizing the party over the people and stripping away our voice, then we need to seriously consider if we want to stay part of this state,” he stated.

He pointed out that people in Northern California, the Central Valley, and the Inland Empire feel “overlooked and undervalued” by state authorities. “Many feel they could have so much more than what they’re currently offered,” he added.

He criticized Democratic policies—like regulations on gas-powered cars and capping emissions—as evidence that Sacramento is out of touch with rural interests.

“The disdainful attitude towards these regions persists, and that’s concerning,” Gallagher commented.

Before arriving in Washington, Gallagher expressed similar sentiments while serving as the Republican leader in Congress, where he introduced a resolution to split California into two states.

Unlike the previous focus on just the rural north, Gallagher’s proposal would create an east-west division, including parts of the conservative Inland Empire in a new state.

The previous effort had little chance of success, largely seen as symbolic, yet it illustrated mounting frustrations between California’s urban and rural areas.

At a press conference, Gallagher highlighted the lost voices of the “forgotten people” in interior counties under the state’s Democratic dominance. He had previously criticized the state’s redistricting plan, labeling it a “Gavin Mander.”

“Gavin, let my people go,” Gallagher exclaimed.

As tensions escalated, he rallied supporters against progressive legislation, emphasizing the fight for their rights. “We are battling tyranny in California,” he asserted. “We’ll do whatever it takes to ensure our freedoms.”

California voters approved a mid-decade congressional redistricting plan aimed at countering partisan gerrymandering, according to Newsom.

It remains uncertain how far Gallagher’s proposal will progress. Establishing a new state demands approval from both the California Legislature and Congress, a significant political undertaking.

For Gallagher and his supporters, the movement seems to resonate as a statement as much as a practical aim at restructuring political boundaries.