📣 Resistance Rising 2025: The ‘Fighting Oligarchy’ Tour Hits the Streets

This spring, the battle against corporate greed is going nationwide. Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have launched their “Fighting Oligarchy” tour—an electrifying movement aimed at dismantling the corrupt grip that billionaires and corporations have on American democracy.

The message is clear: our democracy is not for sale.

With the 2026 midterms looming and political momentum building across grassroots movements, this tour has become a rallying cry for everyday Americans demanding economic justice, healthcare reform, climate action, and a political system that represents people—not profit.

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🚍 A Tour for the People

So far, the tour has made high-impact stops in cities like Denver, Chicago, Atlanta, and Los Angeles, with crowds swelling into the tens of thousands. These aren’t just political rallies—they’re massive gatherings of solidarity. People are showing up not for soundbites, but for substance.

Speeches from Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez have ignited standing ovations, focusing on:

• Ending the influence of dark money and Super PACs
• Taxing the ultra-wealthy and closing corporate loopholes
• Guaranteeing healthcare as a human right through Medicare for All
• Combatting climate change through a Green New Deal
• Protecting voting rights and restoring democracy to the people

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A Counterpunch to the Billionaire Class

Sanders didn’t hold back in Denver, declaring:

“This country is not supposed to be an oligarchy. It’s supposed to be a democracy—of the people, by the people, and for the people. We are going to take our country back.”

Ocasio-Cortez echoed the sentiment in L.A., saying:

“We are done watching corporate lobbyists write the laws that govern our lives. If we want change, we have to demand it, organize for it, and vote for it.”

Their fiery rhetoric is matched by a detailed policy agenda that dares to imagine a fairer, more humane future. And the people are responding—loudly.

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✊ Resistance Rising Joins the Movement

Here at Resistance Rising 2025, we stand fully behind the Fighting Oligarchy tour. This isn’t just about Sanders or AOC—it’s about all of us rising up against a system that has sold out working families for the benefit of the 1%.

Whether you’re a postal worker in Pittsburgh, a teacher in Tucson, or an artist in Oakland, the message is the same: it’s time to resist, to organize, and to reclaim our power.

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📍 Next Stops and How to Get Involved

The tour is heading next to Detroit, Philadelphia, and Raleigh, with more dates expected soon. Follow the official campaign pages or local progressive organizers to stay updated.

Want to do more than just watch?
✔️ Volunteer for progressive campaigns
✔️ Share info and livestreams on social media
✔️ Call out corporate-backed candidates and demand transparency
✔️ Register voters and help others get to the polls

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🗣️ Final Word

The Fighting Oligarchy tour isn’t just an event—it’s a movement. And in a time of rising authoritarianism, corporate consolidation, and growing inequality, it’s exactly what America needs.

Let’s not sit this one out.

Let’s rise. Resist. And rebuild democracy.

#ResistanceRising2025 #FightingOligarchy #SandersAOC #PeoplePower #NotMeUs #UniteToWin

 

Legal Challenges to Energy Deregulation: Environmental Groups Push Back

As the Trump administration barrels forward with sweeping executive orders aimed at eliminating environmental regulations and fast-tracking fossil fuel projects, resistance is mounting—not just in the streets, but in the courts.

Environmental organizations such as Earthjustice and the Environmental Integrity Project have announced they are preparing legal challenges to the administration's latest moves to deregulate the energy sector. These executive orders are part of a broader strategy by the White House to strip away oversight mechanisms and dismantle environmental protections under the guise of “energy independence” and “economic revitalization.”

But advocates argue that what’s really at stake is the health of our environment, communities, and democratic institutions.

What’s Happening?

Earlier this month, President Trump signed a new series of executive orders that bypass traditional environmental review processes—specifically targeting regulations under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Clean Water Act. These orders would allow oil and gas pipelines, drilling operations, and other fossil fuel infrastructure projects to move forward without the usual studies on environmental impact or public input.

The administration claims these rollbacks are necessary to reduce “bureaucratic red tape” and unleash American energy. Critics say it’s a reckless and illegal shortcut to benefit the fossil fuel industry at the expense of people and the planet.

Legal Resistance Gears Up

Environmental groups aren’t taking this lying down.

Earthjustice, a nonprofit environmental law organization, has made it clear they intend to file lawsuits challenging the legality of these executive orders. “You cannot sidestep laws like NEPA or the Clean Water Act just because they’re inconvenient,” said Earthjustice senior attorney Kristen Boyles in a recent statement. “We will see this administration in court.”

Likewise, the Environmental Integrity Project is preparing to argue that these deregulations violate statutes that require federal agencies to consider the environmental and health impacts of their decisions. These groups contend that the administration’s actions are not only harmful but unconstitutional, as they circumvent the checks and balances embedded in environmental law.

Why It Matters

Energy deregulation at this scale could lead to unchecked development of fossil fuel projects, increased carbon emissions, contaminated water sources, and devastation to wildlife habitats. It also threatens Indigenous communities and frontline neighborhoods, which often bear the brunt of environmental degradation.

Furthermore, the gutting of environmental reviews undermines public participation. NEPA was designed to give people a voice in the projects that impact their air, land, and water. Silencing those voices is a direct attack on environmental justice and democratic governance.

The Broader Battle

This is part of a larger trend within the Trump administration’s second term: a war on science, regulation, and any barriers to corporate profit. But the legal system remains one of the most powerful tools for resistance. These lawsuits could delay or derail harmful policies—and send a message that environmental protections are not optional.

As citizens, we must support these legal efforts, stay informed, and continue to speak out. The fight for a livable future doesn’t end with executive orders—it begins with resistance.

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Follow us at Resistance Rising 2025 for ongoing updates on this and other stories about environmental, social, and political resistance in the age of Trump.

 

Mass Mobilization Ignites Across the U.S. in “Hands Off” Protests

Since April 5th, a wave of collective action has surged across the nation as millions of Americans have taken to the streets in the growing “Hands Off” protests. From small towns to major cities, from coastal communities to the heartland, the message is clear: the American people will not stand by as hard-won rights and essential protections are stripped away.

Spearheaded by a coalition of over 150 organizations—including the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, the Women’s March, Black Voters Matter, and local grassroots movements—the “Hands Off” protests represent one of the largest acts of mass mobilization in recent American history. Protesters are uniting under a common banner to push back against a series of aggressive and controversial policies enacted by the Trump administration since his return to power.

What Are Protesters Saying “Hands Off” To?

The movement’s demands are as broad and vital as the coalition behind them. Marchers are calling for:

• Hands Off Our Bodies: Defending reproductive rights and fighting back against extreme abortion bans and the defunding of women’s health services.
• Hands Off Our Votes: Resisting voter suppression, gerrymandering, and attacks on free and fair elections.
• Hands Off Our Communities: Standing up for immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, communities of color, and marginalized groups under increased threat from discriminatory policies.
• Hands Off Our Freedoms: Pushing back against censorship, political retribution, and the erosion of constitutional checks and balances.
• Hands Off Our Safety Nets: Protecting Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, and other crucial social programs facing cuts or privatization.

The Power of Peaceful Defiance

What sets this movement apart is its insistence on peaceful, coordinated, nonviolent resistance. From silent vigils and art installations to massive marches and civil disobedience, Americans are using every creative tool available to make their voices heard. The imagery of open hands raised in protest—a symbol of solidarity and peaceful defiance—has become a unifying gesture for the movement.

In a show of unity and resolve, thousands have gathered in front of state capitols, courthouses, and community centers. Musicians, veterans, teachers, and students have stood shoulder to shoulder, demanding a government that reflects the values of justice, equity, and democracy.

Why It Matters Now

In a time of intensifying polarization and escalating authoritarianism, the “Hands Off” movement reminds us that democracy is not a spectator sport. It requires participation, vigilance, and above all, collective action. These protests are not just about resisting one administration—they are about affirming the core principles that bind this nation together.

This isn’t just resistance—it’s a rebirth. A renaissance of civic power driven not by fear, but by hope.

Get Involved

Whether you're a lifelong activist or just starting to get involved, the “Hands Off” protests welcome everyone. Visit handsoff2025.org (or your local coalition's site) for upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and toolkits for organizing in your community.

Raise your voice. Raise your hand. Keep resisting.

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How to Mobilize Young Voters in California to Resist Trump and His Influence in Future Elections

In the wake of Donald Trump's return to the presidency in 2024, California's youth face a pivotal moment. With pressing issues like climate change, reproductive rights, and democratic integrity at stake, mobilizing young voters is more crucial than ever. Here's a comprehensive guide to engaging and empowering young Californians to resist Trump's influence in upcoming elections.​

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1. Leverage High School Voter Education Initiatives

California's High School Voter Education Weeks, held annually in April, provide an excellent platform to introduce students to the electoral process. These programs encourage students to pre-register to vote and become active participants in democracy. ​

Action Steps:

• Collaborate with local schools to host voter registration drives.
• Invite speakers to discuss the importance of civic engagement.
• Distribute educational materials that highlight the impact of voting on issues like climate policy and social justice.​

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2. Engage with Youth-Led Organizations

Organizations such as Voters of Tomorrow, NextGen America, and the Sunrise Movement have been instrumental in mobilizing young voters through grassroots campaigns and digital outreach.​

Action Steps:

• Partner with these organizations to amplify outreach efforts.
• Encourage youth to take leadership roles in local chapters.
• Utilize social media platforms to share information and organize events.​

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3. Address the Decline in Youth Voter Turnout

Despite high levels of concern over issues like climate change, youth voter turnout saw a decline in recent elections. This underscores the need for targeted strategies to re-engage young voters.​

Action Steps:

• Conduct surveys to understand barriers to voting among youth.
• Develop campaigns that connect voting to tangible outcomes on issues they care about.
• Provide resources that simplify the voting process, including information on registration and polling locations.​

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4. Utilize Digital Platforms for Outreach

Gen Z is highly active on digital platforms, making them effective channels for voter engagement. Digital organizing allows for widespread dissemination of information and mobilization efforts.

Action Steps:

• Create engaging content that resonates with young voters.
• Host virtual events and Q&A sessions with candidates and activists.
• Implement peer-to-peer texting campaigns to remind peers to vote.​

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5. Empower Youth Through Leadership Opportunities

Providing young individuals with leadership roles in political campaigns and advocacy groups fosters a sense of ownership and commitment to civic engagement.​

Action Steps:

• Offer internships and volunteer positions focused on voter outreach.
• Encourage youth to run for local office or participate in school boards.
• Recognize and celebrate the contributions of young activists to inspire others.​

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6. Counteract Misinformation and Promote Media Literacy

In an era of widespread misinformation, educating young voters on how to critically evaluate information is essential.​

Action Steps:

• Host workshops on media literacy and fact-checking.
• Provide resources that debunk common myths related to voting and elections.
• Encourage critical discussions about news sources and information credibility.​

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7. Highlight the Impact of Local Elections

Emphasizing the significance of local elections can motivate young voters to participate, as these elections often have immediate effects on their communities.​

Action Steps:

• Educate youth on how local policies affect issues like education, policing, and environmental regulations.
• Promote awareness of upcoming local elections and ballot measures.
• Encourage participation in community forums and town hall meetings.​

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By implementing these strategies, California can harness the power of its youth to uphold democratic values and counteract the influence of Trump in future elections. Engaged, informed, and empowered young voters are the cornerstone of a resilient democracy.

 

Resistance Rising 2025: The Role of California’s Media in Countering Trump’s Misinformation and Fake News

 Resistance Rising 2025: The Role of California’s Media in Countering Trump’s Misinformation and Fake News​

As the 2024 election cycle unfolded, California's media landscape emerged as a critical front in the battle against misinformation and disinformation, particularly narratives propagated by former President Donald Trump and his allies. Facing a deluge of false claims about election integrity, immigration, and public safety, California's journalists, newsrooms, and state institutions mobilized to safeguard truth and democratic processes.​

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Local Newsrooms: The First Line of Defense

In communities across California, local and nonprofit news outlets have been instrumental in debunking misinformation and providing accurate information to residents. For instance, in response to unfounded rumors of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, outlets like Mission Local and Fresnoland have produced resource guides, promoted media literacy, and published factual accounts to reassure and inform immigrant communities. ​

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State Initiatives: Institutionalizing the Fight Against Disinformation

Recognizing the threat posed by misinformation, California established the Office of Election Cybersecurity within the Secretary of State’s office. This office monitors social media for false information related to elections and works with platforms to remove or flag misleading content. In the 2020 election cycle, this initiative led to the removal or flagging of numerous posts that could have misled voters. ​

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Public Sentiment: A Call for Accountability

Californians have expressed deep concern over the spread of political disinformation. A UC Berkeley IGS Poll found that over 80% of voters are worried about the dangers of disinformation, deepfakes, and AI-generated falsehoods affecting elections. The poll also revealed a bipartisan consensus on the need for government action to regulate social media platforms and ensure the integrity of democratic discourse. ​

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Challenges Within Major Media Outlets

Despite efforts to combat misinformation, internal challenges persist within major media organizations. In a notable incident, the owner of the Los Angeles Times intervened to block the publication of an editorial endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris, leading to the resignation of the editorial editor and raising questions about editorial independence. ​

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Conclusion: Upholding Truth in Turbulent Times

California's media, from grassroots outlets to state institutions, plays a pivotal role in countering misinformation and upholding democratic values. As the state continues to navigate the complexities of the information landscape, the commitment to truth and transparency remains paramount in fostering an informed and engaged citizenry.​

 

Resistance Rising 2025: How Californians Can Support National Protests Against Trump’s Policies

On April 5, 2025, a wave of resistance surged across the United States as millions participated in over 1,400 "Hands Off!" protests opposing President Donald Trump's administration and the influential role of Elon Musk in federal governance. ​

California's Role in the Movement

California stood at the forefront of this national outcry, hosting more than 100 rallies statewide. From the bustling streets of Los Angeles to the state capitol in Sacramento, Californians voiced their dissent against policies perceived as threats to civil liberties, social services, and democratic institutions.​

Ways Californians Can Amplify Their Impact

1. Engage with Local Activist Groups: Organizations like Indivisible, MoveOn, and Third Act are actively organizing events and campaigns. Joining these groups can provide avenues for meaningful participation.​El País
2. Participate in Community Events: Attend town halls, workshops, and local meetings to stay informed and connected with like-minded individuals.​
3. Support Affected Communities: Offer assistance to communities disproportionately impacted by policy changes, such as immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals, through volunteering or donations.​
4. Utilize Social Media: Amplify the movement by sharing information, personal stories, and event details on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.​
5. Contact Elected Officials: Reach out to local and state representatives to express concerns and advocate for policies that uphold democratic values and social justice.​

Conclusion

California's active participation in the "Hands Off!" protests underscores the state's commitment to resisting policies that undermine fundamental rights and freedoms. By continuing to engage in organized activism, community support, and political advocacy, Californians can play a pivotal role in shaping a more equitable and democratic future.

 

California’s Legal Battle Against Trump’s National Emergency Declaration: What It Means for the Fight Ahead

When former President Donald Trump declared a national emergency in 2019 to redirect billions of dollars to fund his border wall—despite Congress denying those specific funds—it ignited a constitutional firestorm. At the forefront of the legal resistance? California.

Fast forward to today, and the battle still reverberates across the political landscape. California’s legal challenge was about more than just money for a wall—it was about defending the separation of powers and state sovereignty. And in 2025, as Trump re-emerges on the national stage with bold executive ambitions, the lessons from that fight are more urgent than ever.

The Core of California’s Argument

Led by then-Attorney General Xavier Becerra, California’s lawsuit argued that Trump’s national emergency declaration was an abuse of power. The Constitution gives Congress—not the president—the “power of the purse.” By declaring an emergency to bypass Congress and repurpose defense funds, the Trump administration set a dangerous precedent.

California, along with other states, also emphasized the real-world impact: funds were being diverted from critical military construction projects, including some in California. The state challenged both the legality and the logic of the emergency.

The Legal Outcome

The case zigzagged through the courts, with mixed decisions at various levels. Ultimately, while the Supreme Court initially allowed the wall construction to proceed while litigation was ongoing, President Biden ended the national emergency and halted the wall project in 2021. This rendered parts of the case moot, but it didn’t erase the constitutional concerns.

Legal scholars and civil liberties advocates warned that the decision left the door open for future presidents—of any party—to use “emergency” powers in increasingly aggressive ways. It wasn’t just about Trump; it was about the power of the presidency going forward.

What This Means in 2025

Now, with Trump once again positioning himself as a law-and-order executive who doesn’t shy from using extraordinary powers, the California lawsuit matters more than ever. It set a legal and moral framework for resistance.

Here’s what we need to keep in mind as we look ahead:

• Vigilance is key – Legal challenges take time, and political narratives can move fast. The earlier local and state leaders act, the stronger the resistance.
• State power matters – States like California have a constitutional right—and perhaps a duty—to challenge federal overreach. That’s a model that other states can and should follow when federal actions cross the line.
• Public pressure works – The national emergency declaration sparked massive protests and public outcry. That attention fueled legal action and helped keep the issue in the spotlight.

Looking Forward

California’s legal resistance wasn’t just about stopping a wall—it was a test of how far executive power can stretch before it snaps the bounds of the Constitution. As we enter a new phase of political conflict, understanding this past battle is vital.

Whether you live in California or beyond, the message is clear: resistance at the state level, backed by legal action and public activism, is not only possible—it’s essential.

 

How We Can Fight Against Trump’s Deportation Agenda

The 2024 election reopened old wounds — and for immigrant communities, the threat has returned with a vengeance. Donald Trump has made it clear: his second term will aggressively target undocumented immigrants, reinstitute mass deportations, and double down on xenophobic policies that rip families apart and sow fear in our communities.

But California stands at the frontlines of the resistance. We’ve fought this battle before — and we’re ready to do it again.

California’s Role as a Safe Haven

California isn’t just the most populous state — it’s home to more immigrants than any other. From farmworkers in the Central Valley to small business owners in Los Angeles, immigrants are the beating heart of our economy and culture. We know our neighbors. We break bread with them. And we won’t allow Trump’s draconian plans to tear them away.

The Golden State has led the charge in protecting undocumented residents — from sanctuary city policies to legal aid initiatives. Now, we must double down.

What Resistance Looks Like in 2025

Fighting Trump’s deportation agenda means organizing, mobilizing, and defending our values at every level. Here’s how we rise:

1. Support Sanctuary Policies

Local governments must strengthen sanctuary protections that limit cooperation with ICE. We need to stop local law enforcement from acting as an extension of federal deportation forces. Cities and counties must reaffirm their refusal to honor ICE detainers or share personal data with immigration authorities.

2. Fund Legal Defense Programs

Legal representation is the first line of defense against deportation. We must expand public funding for immigrant legal aid programs like the California Immigrant Justice Fund. No one should face an immigration judge alone.

3. Empower Rapid Response Networks

Every community should have an emergency plan when ICE raids occur. Rapid response teams can document activity, offer legal resources, and support families left in crisis. These networks are already working — we must strengthen and expand them.

4. Demand Action from Sacramento

Governor Newsom and the California legislature must prepare for the federal crackdown. That means passing stronger legal shields for immigrants, boosting housing protections, and defending access to public benefits regardless of immigration status.

5. Push Back Online and at the Ballot Box

Disinformation is a weapon — and the far-right uses it to vilify immigrants. We must counter the lies with truth. Share stories. Elevate immigrant voices. And most importantly, organize for 2026 and 2028 to ensure Trumpism doesn’t endure past its expiration date.

This is a Human Rights Fight

Let’s be clear: this isn’t just about policy. It’s about people. Mothers. Fathers. Kids in schools. Grandparents in churches. Friends and coworkers.

Trump's deportation agenda is a political stunt built on cruelty — a desperate grasp at fear and division. But we’ve seen this playbook before, and we’ve seen how powerful collective resistance can be.

California can — and must — lead the resistance again. Not just in the courtroom or in the Capitol, but in the streets, in the schools, and in our homes.

Because when we fight back, we don’t just protect immigrant communities — we protect the soul of America.

 

What Can/Did Californians Do to Defend Public Education Against Betsy DeVos?

As the dust settles from the 2016 election, one of the most concerning appointments for Californians and millions of Americans was that of Betsy DeVos as Secretary of Education. Her controversial stances on education—particularly her advocacy for charter schools, school vouchers, and a general disdain for public education—pose significant risks to the future of our students and public education system. California, with its diverse student body and a history of prioritizing public education, must remain steadfast in its resistance to policies that threaten our schools and the values we hold dear.

DeVos’s tenure has been marked by her pursuit of policies that prioritize privatization over investment in the public education system. Her advocacy for school vouchers—essentially using public funds to send students to private or religious schools—undermines the very foundation of public education. This push for privatization is especially dangerous in a state like California, where public schools serve over six million students, many of whom come from historically marginalized communities.

As Californians, there are several ways we can resist and defend our public education system from the damage that DeVos and her policies may inflict:

1. Advocate for Increased Funding for Public Schools

One of the most direct ways we can defend public education is by advocating for increased state and local funding for public schools. While the federal government under DeVos may be pushing for privatization, California has the power to ensure that our schools are adequately funded. This means fighting for policies that invest in our schools, teachers, and students—especially in underserved communities. We can support local school bond measures, push for higher teacher salaries, and call for a fairer distribution of resources to close the achievement gap.

2. Support Teachers and Educators

Teachers are the backbone of the public education system, and they are often on the frontlines of resistance against policies that threaten public schools. Supporting educators means not only advocating for better pay and working conditions but also standing with them when they strike or take a stand against harmful policies. We can join and support teachers’ unions, attend school board meetings, and participate in rallies and protests advocating for the protection and expansion of public education.

3. Engage in Grassroots Activism

Change at the federal level may seem daunting, but history has shown us that grassroots activism can make a significant impact. Californians have a long history of standing up for what’s right—from the civil rights movement to more recent protests against unjust policies. We must continue this tradition by organizing local protests, contacting our elected representatives, and participating in movements that fight for educational equity. Engaging in these efforts strengthens our collective voice and amplifies the message that public education is a right, not a privilege.

4. Vote with Education in Mind

The power of voting cannot be underestimated. In California, voters have a direct influence on the direction of education policy. Whether it’s through local school board elections or state-level policy decisions, casting your vote for candidates who support public education is crucial. These elected officials will have a direct impact on how public funds are allocated to schools and how they will push back against federal education policies. Let’s use our votes to elect leaders who will prioritize the needs of public school students, not the interests of private corporations.

5. Educate and Mobilize Others

A key part of defending public education is ensuring that others are aware of the threats posed by DeVos and her policies. Educating others on the importance of public schools and the dangers of privatization can help build a coalition of advocates who are ready to fight back. Host community forums, write letters to the editor, share information on social media, and engage in conversations with your friends, family, and neighbors. The more people who understand the stakes, the more powerful our collective resistance becomes.

6. Challenge DeVos’s Policies in Court

California has a strong legal tradition of challenging unconstitutional and harmful policies. If the federal government moves forward with policies that harm public education, it’s essential that California takes legal action when necessary. California has the resources and legal expertise to challenge policies like the expansion of charter schools and school vouchers. By taking a stand in court, we can defend the rights of students to receive a quality, free education.

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Conclusion

While Betsy DeVos may have the ear of the Trump administration, California has the collective power to stand against policies that threaten our public schools. We must remain vigilant in our defense of public education, advocating for policies that support all students and ensuring that the education system is a force for equity, opportunity, and inclusion. As Californians, we have a responsibility to resist efforts that undermine public education, and we must act now to protect our schools, our teachers, and, most importantly, our students.

It is our future at stake, and together, we can defend it.

 

The Power of California’s Business Leaders in Resisting Trump’s Economic Policies

In 2025, California's business leaders have emerged as pivotal figures in opposing President Donald Trump's economic policies, leveraging their influence to safeguard the state's interests and uphold its progressive values.

Strategic Legal Challenges

Anticipating potential federal overreach, Governor Gavin Newsom proposed allocating up to $25 million in December 2024 to bolster the state's legal capacity. This funding aims to prepare for challenges against policies that could adversely affect California's economy and regulatory autonomy. ​

Impact on Key Industries

The almond industry, a cornerstone of California's agriculture, faces significant threats from proposed tariffs. A 10% universal tariff, coupled with increased rates for major trade partners, could lead to retaliatory measures from countries like China, India, and the EU, potentially costing the state billions. In response, the Almond Alliance is actively lobbying for government support to mitigate these risks. ​

Similarly, the tech sector, home to giants such as Apple, Google, and Meta, expresses cautious optimism regarding Trump's tariff proposals. While these tariffs might serve as leverage to renegotiate trade terms, there's concern that indiscriminate levies could harm the industry by reducing sales and increasing consumer costs. Tech lobbyists advocate for targeted tariffs addressing specific digital trade barriers. ​

Grassroots Mobilization and Public Sentiment

Beyond corporate corridors, grassroots movements have gained momentum. The 50501 movement, for instance, has organized protests across California, with significant gatherings in cities like San Jose. Demonstrations feature participants holding signs such as "Not my President" and "Fight the Fascists," reflecting widespread dissent against federal policies perceived as detrimental. State Assembly member Ash Kalra has addressed these rallies, emphasizing the importance of resistance in preserving democratic values. ​

Conclusion

California's business leaders, in concert with grassroots activists, play a crucial role in resisting federal economic policies they view as harmful. Through strategic legal actions, industry advocacy, and public mobilization, they strive to protect the state's economic interests and uphold its progressive ideals in the face of challenging political dynamics.

 

Defending the Affordable Care Act in California: How We Can Fight Against Trump’s Healthcare Rollbacks

The Affordable Care Act (ACA), often hailed as one of the most significant health reforms in U.S. history, has provided millions of Americans with access to affordable health insurance. However, throughout the years, the law has faced continuous attempts to dismantle it, especially under the leadership of former President Donald Trump. In California, where healthcare access and equity are crucial to the well-being of residents, we have a unique opportunity—and responsibility—to stand firm and fight back against these rollbacks.

The Importance of the Affordable Care Act

The ACA has been a lifeline for millions, expanding Medicaid, protecting individuals with pre-existing conditions, and providing affordable healthcare coverage through the marketplace. Despite these successes, the ACA has faced relentless challenges, particularly during Trump’s presidency. His administration's efforts to undermine the law, including attempts to repeal it and cut funding for enrollment programs, have caused significant uncertainty for millions of families relying on affordable coverage.

California, however, has shown resilience. While Trump’s efforts to weaken the ACA on a national level had an impact, California has been a leader in protecting the law and expanding access to healthcare for its residents. But, the fight isn’t over. Even now, the risk of further rollbacks looms, and it’s essential for us to remain vigilant.

How We Can Fight Back

1. Advocate for State-Level Protections

One of California's strongest defenses against federal rollbacks is its state-level healthcare laws. In 2020, California passed legislation to strengthen and preserve the ACA at the state level, ensuring that residents continue to have access to affordable health insurance. California also implemented its own individual mandate, which requires all residents to have health insurance or face a penalty, similar to the ACA’s federal mandate before it was repealed.

We must continue to support and protect these state-level policies that safeguard healthcare access for all Californians. This includes advocating for the continued funding of state health programs, ensuring that the state's healthcare exchanges remain robust, and expanding Medicaid where possible.

2. Support and Participate in Local Healthcare Campaigns

California has a strong history of grassroots activism, and healthcare is no exception. Local organizations across the state continue to push for healthcare reforms, and there are numerous ways you can get involved. Whether it’s volunteering, signing petitions, or attending rallies, every action helps in the fight for a stronger and more equitable healthcare system. These efforts often focus on pushing back against proposed changes to state and federal law, ensuring that the Affordable Care Act remains intact and effective.

3. Educate and Mobilize Your Community

One of the most effective ways to defend the ACA in California is through education. Many people are unaware of how much the ACA has improved their lives or how federal rollbacks could impact them. Take the time to educate your friends, family, and neighbors about the importance of the ACA, how it works, and why it's crucial to protect it.

Mobilizing local communities can also increase pressure on lawmakers to resist efforts to undermine the ACA. In California, where political activism is often a driving force for change, this grassroots approach can significantly influence policy decisions.

4. Demand Federal Action to Preserve the ACA

While California has taken significant steps to protect the ACA, it’s also essential to continue pushing for federal protections. We need leaders who will defend the ACA and expand access to healthcare, especially as new challenges emerge. Advocate for lawmakers who prioritize healthcare reform and push for legislative action that ensures the ACA is upheld. Contact your representatives, attend town halls, and let your voice be heard in the fight for a healthcare system that works for everyone.

The Road Ahead

The future of healthcare in America is uncertain, and with the ongoing challenges to the Affordable Care Act, the battle for access to affordable healthcare is far from over. However, California’s continued leadership in healthcare reform, coupled with the tireless advocacy of its residents, can set an example for the nation.

We all have a role to play in defending the Affordable Care Act and ensuring that healthcare remains a right, not a privilege. It’s time to stand up, push back against rollbacks, and protect the gains we’ve made. Together, we can fight for a healthier, more equitable future for all.