Despite the recent presidential debate, the community of Susanville isn’t discussing President Biden or former President Trump’s performances.
Instead, their attention is fixed on Governor Gavin Newsom. Amidst speculations of his potential presidential run, Susanville residents are showing clear concerns, with local sentiments heavily against Newsom stepping onto the national stage.
Local Perspectives on a Potential Newsom Presidency
In Susanville, the prospect of Governor Gavin Newsom as President is causing widespread unease. “Newsom has been absolutely terrible for the families in Susanville,” writer Kelly Eggert told the Daily Mail.
This quote captures the prevailing mood in the town, where Newsom’s potential presidential candidacy is met with significant opposition.
Growing Concerns Over Newsom’s Ambitions
As Governor Newsom presents himself as a possible presidential candidate, the reaction in Susanville is one of increasing worry.
Eggert expressed that if Newsom were to become president, “It would be like the Civil War all over again.” This sentiment reflects the deep divide and heightened tensions that Newsom’s candidacy is provoking among the locals.
Deep-Seated Discontent with State Leadership
Susanville’s residents express profound dissatisfaction with Governor Newsom’s leadership, particularly concerning state management and social policies.
The community feels neglected and adversely affected by policies they believe do not favor their region, highlighting a significant disconnect between this Republican stronghold and the Democratic state leadership.
Susanville’s Strong Republican Support
The electoral history in Lassen County demonstrates its Republican leanings, with overwhelming support for Donald Trump in the 2016 and 2020 elections.
This political alignment is also reflected in local actions, including previous efforts to recall Governor Newsom and the strong backing for Republican candidates in state elections.
Economic Impact of Prison Closure
The closure of the California Correctional Center, initiated by Newsom, has left a lasting impact on Susanville, known locally as ‘Prison Town’.
The town suffered economically due to the loss of 300 jobs, a decision that locals attribute to political motives against Republican-dominated areas.
Community Reaction to Economic Decisions
The economic repercussions of the prison’s closure are still felt in Susanville.
“He did this to punish a Republican area,” Kelly Eggert stated, voicing a common belief that the decision was politically motivated. This has stirred strong resentments towards Governor Newsom, perceived as targeting their livelihoods.
A Second Recall Attempt in Motion
In a tangible display of opposition, locals, led by individuals like Jackie, 67, are actively gathering signatures to initiate a second recall against Governor Newsom.
Jackie’s efforts illustrate a determined community pushback, as she questions Newsom’s capabilities, saying, “I don’t believe he has the capability to be president.”
Critiques of Newsom’s Governance
Governor Newsom’s administration is criticized for high taxes, embracing controversial social policies, and the handling of various state crises.
These issues have galvanized the local population in Susanville to resist his policies, with residents like Jackie advocating for a change to slow down what they see as detrimental state leadership.
Perceived Persecution from State Policies
Local sentiment in Susanville feels a targeted negative impact from state policies under Newsom’s administration.
“We’re getting persecuted by Governor Newsom which is making more people more angry,” Michael Monahan, a retired teacher, said, reflecting a community feeling of being unfairly treated by state decisions.
Local Responses to State Decisions
The decision to shut down the California Correctional Center was met with significant local opposition.
Jeremy Caruso, editor of Susanvillestuff.com, observes that the governor is frequently blamed for many local challenges, indicating a deep-seated discontent with his decisions among the Susanville population.
A Divided Opinion on Newsom’s Leadership
While the majority in Susanville hold critical views of Governor Newsom, not all residents are against him.
Laura Hammond and her boyfriend represent a quieter segment of the population who, while not actively involved in politics, see potential benefits in younger leadership at the state level. However, figures like firefighter David Sandbond are resolute in their opposition, with Sandbond emphasizing his intent to support Trump in future elections.
