Senator Dave Cortese Responds to Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2026-2027 Budget Proposal

SAN JOSE, CA – California State Senator Dave Cortese issued the following statement in response to Governor Newsom’s 2026-2027 Budget Proposal and State of the State Address:  

“Governor Newsom’s 2026-2027 budget proposal builds upon the vision he outlined during his final State of the State address – one that recognizes and underscores California’s continued leadership role in protecting and preserving our core values and accomplishments as a state at a time when they are under direct attack from federal actions that have sought to undermine our economy, our civil rights, our right to due process, our public health, our capacity to lead on innovation, and our climate resilience efforts,” said Senator Dave Cortese. 

“While the Legislative Analyst’s Office estimates an $18 billion budget deficit in the coming year, Newsom’s projection of $42.3 billion in additional revenue offers a pathway forward, one we must proceed with caution. As a member on the California Senate Education Committee, and as a former East Side Union High School District (ESUHSD) Board Trustee, I am most pleased to hear of Newsom’s continued commitment to robust investments in TK-12 education, including increasing the per pupil funding to $27,418. I will continue to argue for parity in per pupil funding across school districts through my Senate Bill 743 (SB 743), the Education Equalization Act. SB 743 would provide additional support to the vast number of students who receive less dollars per pupil, helping equalize per pupil funding statewide.”

“Economic conditions remain dynamic, and the assumptions behind these revenue projections must be carefully scrutinized as we approach the May Budget Revise. The Legislature has an obligation to ensure this budget is fiscally sound, protects essential services, and preserves our social safety net—without passing today’s challenges on to future generations.”

“I look forward to working collaboratively with the Governor, my legislative colleagues, and the Legislative Analyst’s Office to refine this proposal and deliver a balanced budget that reflects California’s values, strengthens our resilience, and positions our state for continued leadership in uncertain times.”

Senator Dave Cortese represents Senate District 15, which encompasses San Jose and much of Santa Clara County in the heart of Silicon Valley. Visit Senator Cortese’s website: https://sd15.senate.ca.gov

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