California Governor Announces Increased Highway Patrol Deployment
California Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled plans on Thursday to expand California Highway Patrol operations statewide, aiming to curb crime and enhance public safety.
In a statement, Newsom remarked, “While the Trump administration is weakening cities, California has partnered with them and delivered tangible outcomes. With these developments, we’re increasing these partnerships, making progress, and keeping crime at bay.”
As per Newsom’s office, officers will collaborate with local law enforcement in major cities, including Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego, Riverside County, the Central Valley, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
The White House quickly responded to Newsom’s announcement, acknowledging his efforts in reducing crime.
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Amidst various discussions, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson indicated, “This is beneficial for Americans, as Democrats are actively addressing crime, reflecting the president’s approach!”
She added, “Combating crime shouldn’t be politicized, yet some Democrats have tried to frame it that way. Trump’s collaboration with DC MPD has led to a significant drop in crime and the removal of many dangerous criminals from the streets of DC.”
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During a press conference, Newsom expressed disapproval of President Trump’s approach, stating he is “militarizing American cities” while trying to address crime in Washington, DC. Earlier this summer, Newsom had also criticized Trump for deploying California’s National Guard without his consent. In response, Trump initiated legal actions in Washington, DC, as well as similar measures in Baltimore and Chicago.
When Trump announced earlier this month that he would use the National Guard in Washington, he singled out Los Angeles and Oakland as “very bad” concerning crime, and remarked that San Francisco was “ruined” by Democratic leadership.
“Today’s announcement draws from the successful operations the CHP is already conducting in Oakland, Bakersfield, and San Bernardino. Officers will focus on high-crime areas, targeting repeat offenders and seizing illegal weapons and narcotics,” Newsom said.
Newsom’s office highlighted that initiatives in Bakersfield, San Bernardino, and Oakland have already led to over 9,000 arrests, recovery of about 5,800 stolen vehicles last year, and confiscation of more than 400 firearms.
“The synergy of resources, intelligence, and personnel will enable us to better disrupt criminal activities and improve community safety throughout California,” explained CHP Commissioner Shawn Dury.
Continuing his criticism of the Trump administration, Newsom emphasized during the press conference that there’s much more to be done.
If Trump genuinely aims to tackle crime nationwide, Newsom suggested that he should focus efforts on Louisiana and Mississippi, where murder rates are significantly higher than in California.
Moreover, Newsom’s office emphasized California’s investment of $1.7 billion. This funding has contributed to decreases in murder, robbery, and property crimes, bringing rates down to levels not seen since before the pandemic.
The governor also mentioned that several blue states and cities are supporting potential National Guard deployments aimed at fighting crime in their communities.
