California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) has recently drawn attention for his contrasting approaches to two pressing issues: stockpiling 2 million doses of misoprostol, an abortion drug while failing to address the state’s ongoing water storage crisis. Newsom’s announcement of the misoprostol stockpile followed a Texas federal court decision that suspended the approval of another abortion drug, mifepristone.
The ruling by Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk, a Trump appointee, stated that the FDA had not adhered to its scientific protocols when it approved mifepristone two decades ago and instead defined pregnancy as an “illness” to speed up the drug’s rollout. Newsom responded by showcasing California’s misoprostol stockpile, a drug initially meant to prevent stomach ulcers but also used for abortions. This move indicates his desire to be seen as an advocate for abortion rights as he potentially eyes a presidential run.
So basically @GavinNewsom – you are planning the MASS MURDER of 2 million innocent helpless humans while screaming about GUN CONTROL? https://t.co/EhVPYbI72W
— LaLa Bing (@LaLaBinQ) April 11, 2023
However, Newsom has been criticized for failing to address California’s dire water storage situation, which has persisted despite record rainfall and snowfall this winter. Critics argue that properly storing the fallen trillions of gallons of water could have sustained California for decades. Instead, due to insufficient water infrastructure, residents are experiencing flooding, electricity shortages, and other challenges.
California has not built a significant reservoir in decades, mainly due to bureaucratic hurdles and environmentalist opposition. Despite the approval of voter-funded water bonds, progress on water storage projects has been slow. Governor Newsom has promised to expedite the construction of new facilities, pledging additional funding and removing “permitting barriers,” but to date, little has changed.
The state’s water management problems have been well-documented, with suggestions for solutions such as desalination and wastewater recycling. However, state and local officials have yet to address the issue urgently. As a result, Californians continue to grapple with the consequences of an unresolved water crisis.
With Newsom’s misoprostol stockpile announcement coming at a time when Californians are questioning his dedication to solving the state’s water storage problem, critics argue that he is prioritizing a political stance over the well-being of his constituents. As water issues remain unresolved and residents deal with flooding and the potential for future droughts, Newsom’s commitment to California’s needs is called into question.
Since Newsom became governor in January 2019, California has experienced a significant net population loss. For the first time in its history, the Golden State saw a decline in population in 2020, with a net loss of over 182,000 residents. This downward trend has been attributed to high living costs, housing shortages, and a perceived lack of effective governance. As residents continue to leave the state, concerns grow over the long-term consequences for California’s economy and political clout on the national stage.
