California officials lay out plans for state's $19m PR push
Share this @internewscast.com

California Governor Gavin Newsom will not be the face of the state’s latest promotional endeavor.

State representatives have confirmed that the $19 million “California Brand Campaign” will proceed without featuring the governor, as the initiative aims to enhance the state’s image.

According to a memo from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, the campaign is dedicated to showcasing “the California story, not the Gavin Newsom story.”

The document emphasizes that the focus is on celebrating California’s achievements, steering clear of political narratives. “This effort is about California’s success, not about politics,” it states. “The Governor is not part of these campaigns and will not be featured.”

The selection process for the initiative’s lead agency concluded last week, with a decision anticipated by April 6.

The campaign’s goal is to attract influential business leaders, stimulate job creation, and highlight California’s “economic dominance,” while addressing misconceptions fueled by misinformation and political discourse, officials noted.


California Governor Gavin Newsom speaks at a podium to authorize an emergency loan for Bay Area transit agencies.
State officials insist the $19 million “California Brand Campaign” won’t feature the governor. REUTERS

California Governor Gavin Newsom speaking at a podium with "SAFER CALIFORNIA" visible.
“This effort is about California’s success, not about politics,” the document stated. REUTERS

“This effort will re-anchor California’s brand in fact-based storytelling that clearly articulates the state’s enduring strengths and long-term value proposition to current and future employers,” the governor’s office wrote.

Ads will zero in on heavy hitters — investors, CEOs and industry groups — with officials betting the message will trickle down to everyday Americans.

“By reaching these decision-makers, the campaign is also expected to positively influence broader public perception among Californians, visitors and the national audience,” the memo stated.

State brass say they’ll have “hard data” to prove whether the nine-month blitz works.

They also pointed to similar taxpayer-funded campaigns across the country — from Michigan to Maryland — as proof this kind of spending isn’t unusual. Supporters, including Stephen Cheung of the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation, say it’s a needed reset.

“A campaign like this is important because it helps tell the real California story — highlighting our economic strength, vibrant small business community and global leadership in industries that drive growth and opportunity.”

But Republicans aren’t buying it.

State Sen. Tony Strickland blasted the effort as “putting lipstick on a pig.”

“Californians are still facing soaring homelessness, rising crime and public safety concerns, and a high-speed rail project that has burned through billions with little to show, while critical upgrades like Next Generation 911 lag despite nearly $500 million spent,” he said in a statement. “Now, Sacramento is spending $19 million on a marketing campaign to polish the governor’s image — money that won’t change the reality Californians see every day.”

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
18-year-old suspect arrested in Santa Monica Pier shooting

Teenage Suspect Taken into Custody Following Shooting at Santa Monica Pier

Panic erupted at the Santa Monica Pier over the weekend when a…
No injuries after suspect shoots at JSO officers from house during foot chase in Tallyrand

Suspect Opens Fire on JSO Officers During Tallyrand Foot Chase; No Injuries Reported

JSO detectives have traced the origin of a pursuit back to a…
College Republicans chapter sues University of Florida over club shutdown following antisemitic allegations

University of Florida Faces Lawsuit from College Republicans Over Club’s Closure Amid Antisemitism Allegations

The University of Florida’s College Republicans chapter has embarked on a legal…
Iranian influencer celebrates death of of leader Ali Larijani

Iranian Influencer Sparks Global Buzz with Reaction to Ali Larijani’s Passing

In a dramatic turn of events, Iranians have taken to celebrating the…
Multiple allies decline US calls for Strait of Hormuz support amid rising Middle East tensions

Strait of Hormuz: US Faces Setback as Allies Rebuff Support Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions

The United States is facing an unexpected challenge as an increasing number…
Florida executes convict in 2008 rape, killing of woman, whose final call sparked 911 reforms

Florida Executes Man Convicted in 2008 Case that Revamped 911 Call System

On Tuesday evening, Florida carried out the execution of a man convicted…
Rogers Park, Chicago fire: Firefighter Michael Altman dies amid blaze on West North Shore Avenue at Clark, CFD says

Heroic Firefighter Michael Altman Tragically Loses Life Battling Rogers Park Blaze on West North Shore Avenue

In a tragic turn of events, a Chicago firefighter lost his life…
U.S. Navy Levels Up: New Robot Swarms Tackle Maintenance Crisis

Revolutionizing Naval Efficiency: How Robot Swarms are Solving the U.S. Navy’s Maintenance Dilemma

The United States Navy operates a fleet of large, intricate vessels that…
NYC rooftop fire casts shadow on St Patrick's Day Parade

Rooftop Blaze in NYC Raises Concerns Ahead of St. Patrick’s Day Parade

A blaze erupted in Manhattan on Tuesday, coinciding with St. Patrick’s Day…
Mangione's lawyers make second try to toss murder weapon evidence in New York state court

Mangione’s Legal Team Mounts Second Attempt to Dismiss Murder Weapon Evidence in New York State Court

In a renewed legal battle, the defense team for Luigi Mangione, accused…
Drug kingpin on parole caught with enough fentanyl to kill most of county, DA says

Paroled Drug Lord Found with Lethal Fentanyl Supply: A Wake-Up Call for County Safety

A drug trafficker convicted of distributing a staggering amount of fentanyl across…
Top Democrats file criminal referral against fired DHS Secretary Kristi Noem 

Democratic Leaders Take Legal Action Against Former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem

On Monday, a criminal referral was filed by two leading Democratic lawmakers…