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Governor Newsom Making Surprise Stop In Israel
California Gov. Gavin Newsom earlier this year when he announced new gun safety legislation.
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Justin Sullivan
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Getty Images
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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.
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“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.
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.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
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