2nd Term: California’s Newsom draws “battle lines” with GOP

By KATHLEEN RONAYNE AND SOPHIE AUSTIN
Associated Press

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom has kicked off his second term by comparing his leadership style to that of Republican governors and former President Donald Trump. The Democratic governor’s inaugural address crafted California as a beacon for freedom amid a rising tide of oppression taking hold in other statehouses. He chose Jan. 6 for his inaugural events to draw a contrast with the violent attack on the U.S. Capitol two years ago. Newsom enters his second term with strong support from Californians but potential headwinds from an expected budget deficit. Though viewed as a potential presidential candidate some day, he says he plans to support President Joe Biden.