Senator Suzette Martinez Valladares (R-Santa Clarita) has outlined her budget priorities for 2026, emphasizing the need to address California’s cost of living, public safety, and economic opportunities. Her announcement comes days before Governor Gavin Newsom is scheduled to deliver his State of the State address and present his proposed budget to the legislature on January 8.
Senator Valladares expressed concern about the state’s current financial situation. “We’re likely going to hear a glowing speech from the governor about how great the state is, but the truth is families in California are hurting,” she said. “An $18 billion deficit, combined with our soaring cost of living, fleeing businesses, and struggling students demonstrates a clear failure of the majority party’s priorities.”
Last month, Senator Valladares joined other California Senate Republicans in releasing their budget priorities. The group advocates for increased government oversight and accountability aimed at improving outcomes for residents. Their proposals include measures such as lowering housing costs for renters and prospective homeowners, enhancing public safety against crime and wildfires, supporting hospitals—especially those serving rural communities—and eliminating fraud in programs like Medi-Cal.
Other areas highlighted by Senate Republicans involve investing in water infrastructure and emergency services for disasters and droughts. They also propose additional funding for University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems to make higher education more affordable for local students. Additionally, they support reducing unemployment insurance debt burdens on employers.
“California government doesn’t have a money problem, but it does have a spending problem. Families deserve a budget that puts their daily needs first, not more wasteful spending that leaves them paying more and getting less,” Senator Valladares said.
The full letter outlining these priorities from California Senate Republicans can be found here.