Story perspectives

California Gubernatorial Candidates Shun Reparations, Focus on Loans

2/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In the 2026 California gubernatorial race, candidates show little support for reparations.
Tony Thurmond, California Superintendent of Public Instruction, is the only candidate proposing loans for Black residents instead of cash.
Lisa Holder (civil rights attorney) noted that advancing reparations requires reforms to address systemic inequalities.
Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, has rejected cash payments and reparations bills.
Newsom approved funding for research to verify descendants of enslaved individuals.

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Story summary

In the 2026 California gubernatorial race, candidates show little support for reparations.
Tony Thurmond, California Superintendent of Public Instruction, is the only candidate proposing loans for Black residents instead of cash.
Lisa Holder (civil rights attorney) noted that advancing reparations requires reforms to address systemic inequalities.
Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, has rejected cash payments and reparations bills.
Newsom approved funding for research to verify descendants of enslaved individuals.