As we move through the final days of summer, there’s so much to celebrate here in California—a state that continues to set the pace for progress and innovation. First, let’s take a moment to cheer on California’s incredible Olympic athletes, who brought home an impressive 14 medals from Paris, including three golds! Their achievements inspire us all, showing that we can reach new heights with hard work and determination.  

In other exciting news, the San Diego Zoo has warmly welcomed two pandas from China, an important symbol of California’s cultural ties with China and the spirit of international collaboration. In Sacramento, we proudly welcomed 80 students in the inaugural cohort of Sacramento State’s Black Honors College—the first of its kind in the nation. This historic program is more than just a college; it’s a transformative space where Black excellence is nurtured and celebrated.  

Our commitment to a sustainable and prosperous California is also bearing fruit. Last quarter, we saw a record number of zero-emission vehicles sold, with over 118,000 new ZEVs hitting the roads. This is a major leap forward in our fight against climate change, toward cleaner air, and protecting our shared environment. Just this month, California secured a $600 million federal grant to upgrade 100 miles of electric transmission lines. This project will protect our power grid and create hundreds of new jobs while saving taxpayers $200 million in energy costs. 

As we celebrate these achievements, let’s carry forward the hope and determination that define California. Together, we are building a strong, sustainable, and inclusive future for all.  

Eleni Kounalakis
Lieutenant Governor of California

CAL FIRE Visit 

As wildfires continue to ravage our state, I joined CAL FIRE for a briefing on the devastating Park Fire, which became the fourth-largest wildfire in California’s history. Touring CAL FIRE’s Aviation Headquarters at the McClellan Air Tanker Base, I saw firsthand the tireless efforts of our brave firefighters working around the clock to protect our communities. With over 400,000 acres burned and over 700 structures destroyed or damaged, the Park Fire is a stark reminder of the growing threat of wildfires. The fire is now over 98% contained with safety risks remaining.  

For more details on my visit and our ongoing efforts to combat wildfires, please read the Full Press Release. 

Santa Barbara Highlights 

Meeting with the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians 

During a visit to the Santa Ynez Reservation, we met with Tribal Council members of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. This visit provided an opportunity to tour the reservation, including the Santa Ynez Tribal Health Clinic, which celebrated its 50th anniversary. Initially established in 1974 in a two-bedroom trailer without running water, the clinic has grown into a vital healthcare facility serving 17,000 patients annually. The visit underscored the remarkable progress of the Chumash community, which has transitioned from limited resources to thriving self-sufficiency. With more than 100 homes, a Tribal Hall, a Learning Center, and community spaces, the Santa Ynez Reservation exemplifies resilience and growth, ensuring a sustainable future for the tribe. 

Celebrating Federal Support for Santa Barbara 

While in Santa Barbara, I had the privilege of joining Congressman Salud Carbajal, Mayor Randy Rowse, and City Manager Kelly McAdoo to announce nearly $1 million in federal funding to enhance the city’s public safety infrastructure. This critical investment, secured through the advocacy of Congressman Carbajal and the Biden-Harris administration, will modernize Santa Barbara’s radio communication systems, giving first responders the tools to keep our families and communities safe from weather impacts and natural disasters. The funding is part of a broader effort to strengthen California’s infrastructure, including investments in the electrical grid, transportation, water supply, and broadband. This partnership between local, state, and federal governments is a testament to what can be achieved when leaders work together for the safety and prosperity of our communities. 

Small Business Tour 

Following the press conference, we took a stroll down Santa Barbara’s vibrant State Street, accompanied by Mayor Randy Rowse and representatives from Visit Santa Barbara and the Downtown Santa Barbara Partnership. This walk-and-talk provided an in-depth look at the heart of the city, where we engaged with local small business owners who contribute to the unique charm of this coastal community. The discussions covered the challenges and opportunities faced by downtown businesses, highlighting the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs who are vital to the city’s economy. 

Historic Rincon Island Co-Management Announcement 

We are proud to announce a historic partnership between the California State Lands Commission and the Coastal Band of the Chumash Nation to pursue the co-management of Rincon Island. This land, once used for offshore oil and gas development, will now be managed with the deep cultural connection of the Chumash people in mind. This initiative aligns with our broader commitment to the 30×30 conservation goal, preserving California’s natural and cultural heritage for future generations. This collaboration sets a powerful precedent for environmental stewardship and honors the Chumash Nation’s longstanding relationship with the land. 

Read the Full Press Release.  

Launch of Transporter-11 

In a historic moment for California’s leadership in climate technology and innovation, I had the privilege of witnessing the launch of Transporter-11, which carried the pioneering Tanager-1 satellite into space. This satellite, developed by a world-class coalition including NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Planet, and the California Air Resources Board, will significantly enhance our ability to track methane and CO2 emissions from space. By providing precise data on greenhouse gases, Tanager-1 is a critical tool in our fight against climate change, helping to protect our environment for future generations. This launch marks a bold step forward in California’s commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation. 

Job Growth on the Rise  

California continues to lead the way in job creation. In July, California created 21,100 new jobs—nearly one out of every five jobs that the nation added last month. This is proof that the Golden State continues to thrive! 

Inflation Reduction Act 2nd Anniversary 

August 15th marked the two-year anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act, a game-changing investment for California and the nation. Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, this historic legislation is creating jobs, protecting our environment, and building a stronger future for all Californians.  

Transgender History Month 

In August, we proudly celebrated Transgender History Month, recognizing the remarkable history and ongoing achievements of the transgender community. From the courage of Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera to California’s leadership in passing transformative policies like the Gender Recognition Act and establishing All Gender Restrooms, our state continues to set the standard for inclusivity. As the first state to declare August as Transgender History Month and our office’s historic move to establish a Transgender Advisory Council, California is committed to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and supporting the future of the transgender community. 

Women’s Equality Day 

On August 26, we celebrated Women’s Equality Day, marking 104 years since women secured the constitutional right to vote. As we honor the trailblazers who fought for the 19th Amendment, we recognize California’s continued leadership in advancing gender equity. At a time when reproductive freedom is under threat and pay equity remains a challenge, our commitment to building a future where every woman has autonomy and opportunity is more crucial than ever.