Ahead of Governor Newsom’s State of the State address to the Legislature this Thursday, Sen. Suzette Martinez Valladares (R-Santa Clarita) announced her 2026 budget priorities, focusing on lowering the cost of living, strengthening public safety, and expanding economic and educational opportunities.
“We’re likely going to hear a glowing speech from the governor about how great the state is, but the truth is families in California are hurting,” said Senator Valladares. “An $18 billion deficit, combined with our soaring cost of living, fleeing businesses, and struggling students demonstrates a clear failure of the majority party’s priorities.”
Governor Gavin Newsom is expected to deliver his proposed budget and State of the State address in person to the legislature this Thursday January 8, 2026. Last month, Senator Valladares and California Senate Republicans unveiled their budget priorities, calling for greater government oversight and accountability to deliver real results for Californians, including:
Lowering housing costs for renters and helping more Californians buy homes
Keeping Californians safe from crime and wildfires
Supporting hospitals and access to care for rural Californians
Eliminating fraud in Medi-Cal and other assistance programs
Investing in water and emergency services for disasters and droughts
Funding for UC and CSU so students can afford to stay and learn in California
Supporting job creators by reducing the Unemployment Insurance debt burden placed on them
“California government doesn’t have a money problem, but it does have a spending problem. Families deserve a budget that puts their daily needs first, not more wasteful spending that leaves them paying more and getting less,” Senator Valladares concluded.
Click here to read the full California Senate Republicans budget priority letter.