California Governor Newsom Proposes Tax on Recipients of Trump’s Anti-Weaponization Fund

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a proposal to tax 100% of funds received by Californians from President Donald Trump’s Anti-Weaponization Fund. This proposal was made during a news conference on Wednesday, where Newsom expressed concerns about the fund, which totals $1.78 billion and is intended to support individuals affected by alleged political weaponization. Critics of the fund have labeled it a 'boondoggle' that benefits Trump’s allies, particularly those involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. Newsom's criticism has drawn accusations of hypocrisy from some Republicans, who point to his own spending programs in California. Newsom's administration has faced scrutiny for its handling of public funds, including a $25 million legal fund aimed at countering actions from the Trump administration. The proposed tax comes as California anticipates a $2.9 billion budget shortfall for the 2027 fiscal year. In response to the establishment of the Anti-Weaponization Fund, some Democratic lawmakers have also introduced legislation to block it.