(DCNF)—Democrat California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s push to hold a special election for his state’s gerrymandering campaign in November is expected to cost taxpayers over $200 million, according to a memo from California’s Assembly Republicans.
Newsom announced at the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles that Democrats would move forward with an effort to oust roughly six Republicans from the House of Representatives. Assembly Republicans estimate the statewide redistricting election could cost at least $235.5 million — which includes $31.1 million for the California Secretary of State (SOS) and $204.4 million for counties to administer the vote, according to a memo released Thursday.
Republicans based their estimate on the 2021 California gubernatorial recall election, which cost Californians $200.2 million, including $174.1 million in county administrative costs and $26.2 million in SOS costs.
Since September 2021, inflation, higher postage fees and an increase in registered voters are expected to drive costs higher. The memo noted inflation for salaries, wages, benefits, materials and communication has risen at least 16% since 2021.
During the same year as Newsom‘s recall election, the governor signed Assembly Bill 37, making universal mail-in voting permanent and requiring counties to automatically mail ballots to all active, registered voters.
Since that year, postage costs — 34.5% higher for first-ounce letters and 45% for additional ounces — have significantly increased, with postcards up 52.5% since 2021, according to the memo. With mail-in ballots now mandatory, California has seen a 3.83% increase in registered voters since 2021, as of February.
The California Assembly Republicans, however, warned that costs could rise depending on whether additional voters are registered by November, inflation continues, litigation occurs and potential communications and outreach are required.
In a July 29 press statement, California Republican State Assemblymember Carl DeMaio warned taxpayers could face around $250 million due to inflation, the increase in registered voters and additional fees from lawsuits related to the redistricting efforts.
The push to oust Republicans comes after Newsom repeatedly warned President Donald Trump and other Republicans about Texas’ redistricting efforts, which began in July. During the launch of the gerrymandering campaign, Newsom claimed California would not “sit idle,” alleging that Trump and his administration are shredding U.S. “democracy before our very eyes.”
With the special election set for Nov. 4, voters will have to decide on transferring redistricting authority from the independent commission to the state Legislature. However, despite the campaign push, a recent poll conducted by Politico shows that 64% of Californians are in favor of independent redistricting, with only 36% of voters surveyed backing the return of congressional redistricting authority to the state legislature.
Notably, of the 64% in favor of keeping the commission in authority, 72% were independents, 66% were Republicans and 61% were Democrats.
Aside from the lack of popularity for handing redistricting power to the legislature, the state is also facing an estimated $20 billion deficit, according to CalMatters. The massive deficit comes after state Democrats previously claimed California would only have a $12 billion deficit prior to Newsom and legislative leaders drafting the 2025–26 state budget in June, the outlet reported.
When asked about the potential cost of the special election, Newsom’s office pointed the Daily Caller News Foundation to a response the governor gave at his press conference Thursday. During the event, Newsom was questioned about cost concerns from Riverside County’s registrar, stating that the state of California will fund the expenses.
“No price tag for Democracy,” Newsom added at the press conference.
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How to Prepare for Food Emergencies if You Don’t Have a Homestead or Bunker
In an unpredictable world, where supply chain disruptions, natural disasters, or economic instability can strike without warning, having a reliable food supply is more than just smart—it’s essential for survival. Whether you’re a “prepper” or not, we all know the golden rule: self-sufficiency is key. But what if you’re living in an apartment, working long hours, or simply don’t have the land to turn into a thriving homestead? Don’t worry; there’s a practical, effective way to build your food security without needing acres of soil or a fortified bunker.
The Ideal Prep: Building Your Own Food Empire
The ultimate dream for any serious prepper is controlling your own food production. Imagine waking up to a sprawling garden bursting with fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs—tomatoes ripening on the vine, potatoes ready to harvest, and greens that provide nutrition year-round. Add in livestock like chickens for eggs and meat, and you’ve got a self-sustaining system that keeps your family fed no matter what chaos unfolds outside.
This approach isn’t just about calories; it’s about resilience. A well-maintained garden can yield hundreds of pounds of produce annually, while a small flock of chickens might produce dozens of eggs weekly. It’s empowering, cost-effective in the long run, and teaches invaluable skills like crop rotation, animal husbandry, and preservation techniques. If you have the space, time, and resources, starting small and scaling up is the best path to true independence.
The Reality Check: Not Everyone Can Homestead
But let’s face it—not all of us are in a position to go full homesteader. Urban dwellers might be limited to a balcony or community plot that’s far from sufficient for long-term needs. Busy professionals juggling jobs, families, and daily life often lack the hours required for daily tending. And for those in apartments, condos, or regions with harsh climates, raising livestock or maintaining a large garden simply isn’t feasible. Factors like zoning laws, soil quality, water access, or even physical limitations can make this ideal out of reach.
That’s where the frustration sets in. You want to be prepared, but without a homestead or bunker, how do you ensure your pantry doesn’t run dry during a prolonged crisis? The good news is, you don’t have to sacrifice your preparedness goals. There’s a smart, accessible alternative that bridges the gap: investing in high-quality, long-term storage food.
The Smart Alternative: Long-Term Storage Food from Heaven’s Harvest
Long-term storage food is designed for exactly these scenarios—providing nutrient-dense, shelf-stable meals that last for decades without refrigeration or special conditions. It’s the perfect solution for preppers who can’t rely on fresh production but still demand reliability and variety in their emergency stockpile.
At Heaven’s Harvest, they specialize in premium survival food kits that make preparedness effortless. Their products are crafted with the prepper mindset in mind: non-GMO, made in the USA, and packed with real ingredients that taste like home-cooked meals, not bland rations. Whether you’re stocking up for a short-term blackout or a long-haul SHTF event, our kits offer:
- Extended Shelf Life: Up to 25 years of storage, so you can buy once and forget about rotation worries.
- Nutritional Balance: High-protein entrees, fruits, vegetables, and dairy alternatives to keep your energy up and health intact.
- Ease of Preparation: Just add water, and you’ve got hearty meals like beef stroganoff, chili mac, or cheesy lasagna ready in minutes—no garden weeding required.
- Customizable Options: From individual buckets to family-sized kits, scale your supply to fit your needs and budget.
- Peace of Mind: Sealed in durable, waterproof containers that protect against pests, moisture, and light.
Unlike generic store-bought cans that spoil quickly or lack variety, Heaven’s Harvest focuses on quality and sustainability. Our food is freeze-dried or dehydrated to lock in flavor and nutrients, ensuring you’re not just surviving but thriving. And for those concerned about allergens or dietary preferences, we offer gluten-free and vegetarian options to keep everyone covered.
Why Wait? Secure Your Food Supply Today
Preparing for food emergencies doesn’t require a homestead or bunker—it requires action. By choosing long-term storage food from Heaven’s Harvest, you’re taking control in a way that fits your lifestyle. Start small with a 72-hour kit to test the waters, or go all-in with a year’s supply for ultimate security.
Visit Heaven’s Harvest today and use code “PATRIOT” for an exclusive discount on your order. Don’t let limitations hold you back; build your resilient future, one meal at a time. Your family will thank you when it matters most.
