This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
Governor Newsom Making Surprise Stop In Israel
California Gov. Gavin Newsom earlier this year when he announced new gun safety legislation.
(
Justin Sullivan
/
Getty Images
)
Gov. Gavin Newsom is headed to Israel for a surprise trip on Thursday, he announced on X, formerly known as Twitter.
I’m on my way to Israel.
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) October 19, 2023
I’ll be meeting with those impacted by the horrific terrorist attacks and offering California’s support.
Newsom is expected to land Friday morning to meet with victims of the Israel-Hamas war, his office said. Once he leaves Israel later on Friday, Newsom will travel to Hong Kong to kick-off his week-long trip to China.
“The Governor adjusted his planned international trip and will briefly visit Israel ahead of going to China,” Newsom’s director of communications Erin Mellon said in a statement. “While in Israel, the Governor will meet with those impacted by the violence.”
California will also be sending medical supplies to the region, Newsom’s office confirmed.
The trip to Israel comes less than a day after Newsom increased funding for security at places of worship in response to the conflict in the Middle East.
Sponsored message
The $10 million in state funding will boost police presence at religious institutions by reimbursing local law enforcement agencies for overtime costs.
“No matter how and where one prays, every Californian deserves to be safe,” Newsom said in a statement.
Newsom also doubled the funding available for the California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program with a $20 million investment.
The program helps nonprofit organizations that are at high risk for violent attacks and hate crimes, including synagogues and mosques, upgrade their security. Religious institutions can apply for the funding here until Oct. 27.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
