Story perspectives

California's Capitol Project Costs Soar to $1.1 Billion

10/29/2025

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Center

Newsom Defends Project

The Capitol Annex Project in California carries a $1.1 billion price tag.
Initial estimates put the project at $543.2 million.
California Governor Gavin Newsom reacted angrily to a reporter's comparison with U.S. President Donald Trump’s ballroom and urged transparency.
Critics label his demeanor condescending and describe the project as opaque, citing private corridors for lawmakers.
A recent lawsuit settlement allowed bypassing environmental regulations, leaving the public frustrated by limited information.

Left

Newsom Condemns Trump

California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned U.S. President Donald Trump for neglecting Americans' food benefits during the government shutdown.
Twenty-one states, including California, sue the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for failing to fund SNAP.
Newsom described the actions as cruel and disconnected from everyday Americans.
Newsom urged Trump to return to the United States and negotiate.
GOP Rep. Wesley Hunt accused Newsom of code-switching his accent to appeal to Black audiences.

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Newsom Defends Project

The Capitol Annex Project in California carries a $1.1 billion price tag.
Initial estimates put the project at $543.2 million.
California Governor Gavin Newsom reacted angrily to a reporter's comparison with U.S. President Donald Trump’s ballroom and urged transparency.
Critics label his demeanor condescending and describe the project as opaque, citing private corridors for lawmakers.
A recent lawsuit settlement allowed bypassing environmental regulations, leaving the public frustrated by limited information.

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