April 2025 Round-Up
As April draws to a close, California faces a critical moment in defending our economic strength and global leadership. Tariffs proposed by President Trump threaten to destabilize international markets, drive up consumer costs, and jeopardize millions of jobs – especially here in California, where nearly 5 million livelihoods depend on trade and tourism. As the world’s fourth-largest economy and a hub of global commerce, California isn’t just impacted by these reckless proposals – we are leading the charge against them.
As Governor Newsom’s Representative for International Affairs and Trade Development, I have seen firsthand the importance of smart, strategic, and secure trade policy. As a former U.S. Ambassador, I’m proud to continue advancing our state’s international relationships – because when California leads, we strengthen not only our own economy, but the nation’s standing in the world.
Throughout the month, we’ve also honored the people, values, and movements that make California exceptional. This Earth Day, as Chair of the State Lands Commission, I reaffirmed our commitment to bold climate action—advancing clean energy, protecting our coastline, and preserving our state’s natural treasures for future generations. We commemorated Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, standing in solidarity with California’s vibrant Armenian community to ensure history is never forgotten.
We wore denim in support of survivors on Denim Day and recognized Sexual Assault Awareness Month with a renewed call to end sexual violence and build a culture of respect. On Dolores Huerta Day, we celebrated the legacy of one of California’s fiercest champions for labor rights and justice. And during California Library Week, we uplifted the foundational role our libraries play in expanding access to education, information, and democracy.
As we look ahead, one thing is clear: California will not back down. We will continue to lead with purpose, protect what matters most, and shape a future rooted in equity, resilience, and opportunity for all.
Eleni Kounalakis
Lieutenant Governor of California
California State University Campus Tours
As I wrap up my tour of all 23 CSU campuses, I had the opportunity to visit three incredible institutions in April: Cal Maritime, CSU Channel Islands, and CSU Bakersfield (CSUB). Each campus is a testament to the hard work, resilience, and innovation of California’s students and educators. At Cal Maritime, I witnessed firsthand how this unique institution prepares students for leadership roles in the maritime industry. From touring the Golden Bear Training Ship to exploring the cutting-edge Pilot Simulator, it’s clear that Cal Maritime is providing its cadets with world-class training for a global industry. I also celebrated their bright future as they merge with Cal Poly San Luis Obispo to strengthen their programs.
At CSU Channel Islands, I was inspired by the school’s focus on accessibility and innovation, especially its commitment to student success. From the development of Gateway Hall, which will provide state-of-the-art learning spaces, to the impactful Peer Education & Equity Programs (PEEP) that foster a sense of community and belonging, CSUCI is working hard to close equity gaps. Additionally, the Santa Rosa Island Research Station is a remarkable resource for students and faculty to engage in research while working with the National Park Service, furthering CSUCI’s commitment to hands-on learning and community engagement.
Finally, I wrapped up my last and final CSU campus tour with a visit to CSU Bakersfield, where I had the privilege of learning about their exciting Energy & Innovation Building project, which will bolster the university’s research and academic offerings. It was also inspiring to see how CSUB is combating food insecurity through their Edible Gardens program, providing fresh produce to students, faculty, and staff. These efforts reflect the CSU system’s dedication to supporting all students, especially those from underserved communities. As Lieutenant Governor and a proud member of all three public higher education systems in California, I’m proud to support our campuses and the future of higher education in California.
Delivering More Student Housing at San Francisco State University
I was proud to return to San Francisco State University to celebrate the completion of West Grove Commons – just two years after joining for its groundbreaking. This new, state-of-the-art residence hall will provide over 700 much-needed beds for first-year students in one of the most expensive cities in the country. As I have visited all 23 CSU campuses I’ve seen firsthand the impact of housing insecurity on our students, and I know how urgently we must act. With support from a $116 million state investment, this project is a powerful example of how we can expand affordable housing and ensure our students can focus on their education – not where they’ll sleep at night. I’m grateful to President Mahoney and the entire SFSU community for their leadership in supporting student well-being and success.
Leading the Fight Against Human Trafficking with AB 379
In April, I stood proudly alongside Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper, survivor-led coalitions, and local district attorneys to speak in support of our co-sponsored bill, AB 379, authored by Assemblywoman Maggy Krell. This critical legislation was crafted to prevent sex trafficking, hold buyers accountable, and create a dedicated fund to support survivors. As a former U.S. Ambassador, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating toll of this $150 billion global industry – and California remains a major hub. I want to thank Assemblywoman Krell for her courageous advocacy and tireless leadership in the fight to end sex trafficking and ensure justice for survivors. This work is far from over.
California International Affairs & Trade Development Interagency Committee Meeting
On April 21st, I convened California’s International Affairs and Trade Development Interagency Committee for the first quarter of the year to discuss our growing portfolio of international partnerships and the global issues shaping our economy. As Governor Newsom’s Representative for International Affairs and Trade, I emphasized that California will continue to lead globally, despite the reckless trade policies coming out of Washington. Our state agencies shared updates on key international collaborations in climate action, emergency preparedness, and clean energy, reinforcing our values of sustainability and innovation. With one in four jobs tied to foreign trade and $185 billion in exports last year alone, California’s economic success is deeply connected to our global relationships. I remain committed to ensuring California stays open to the world – welcoming trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchange.
Read the full recap of the meeting here.
Yom HaShoah Commemoration
I had the profound honor of participating in a Yom HaShoah commemoration at the Jewish Community Center, where I joined Dr. Anita Friedman for a meaningful conversation on combating antisemitism and hate in all its forms. We reflected on the urgency of remembrance, the importance of Holocaust and genocide education, and the progress California has made – including the recent release of the Golden State Plan to Counter Antisemitism and the codification of the CA Teachers Collaborative. Following our discussion, I joined Michael Papas in lighting a candle in memory of a Holocaust victim, a solemn reminder of the six million Jews who perished. As Lieutenant Governor, I remain committed to ensuring California continues to lead in education, remembrance, and action against hate.
Dolores Huerta Day
As Acting Governor, I was proud to proclaim April 10, 2025 as Dolores Huerta Day in California. Dolores Huerta is a towering figure in our state’s history – a fearless advocate for farmworkers, women, and marginalized communities whose legacy continues to inspire generations. From co-founding the United Farm Workers to her enduring work through the Dolores Huerta Foundation, her impact on civil rights and social justice is immeasurable. On her 95th birthday, we honored her remarkable contributions and reaffirmed our commitment to the values she has championed.
Read the full proclamation here.
Strengthening California-Ireland Ties
On April 11th, I was honored to join the Consul General of Ireland, Michael Smith, and Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason in San Francisco for a special gathering in tribute to Senator George Mitchell. Senator Mitchell’s leadership in negotiating the Good Friday Agreement remains one of the most inspiring examples of diplomacy in modern history. As a proud Californian, I was moved to reflect on the deep and enduring ties between our state and Ireland – home to a vibrant Irish American community that continues to enrich every corner of our state. California is Ireland’s second-largest state trade partner, with a two-way trade volume exceeding $3.9 billion in 2024 and more than 580 Irish companies operating in our state, supporting over 27,000 jobs. These economic and cultural connections remind us that our shared values continue to drive prosperity and peace on both sides of the Atlantic.
Breaking Ground on Campus Town
I was proud to join community leaders in Seaside for the groundbreaking of the transformative Campus Town development – just south of CSU Monterey Bay. This ambitious project is turning a once “undevelopable” former military site into a vibrant, mixed-use community with over 1,400 housing units, including 20% affordable housing. As someone who spent years developing master-planned communities, I know how critical partnerships like those of KB Homes and The Bakewell Company are in bringing these visions to life. Campus Town is not only the largest housing development in Seaside’s history – it’s a model for how we meet California’s urgent housing needs while building communities where people can live, work, and thrive. I look forward to seeing this project become a cornerstone of opportunity on the Central Coast.
California Africa Climate and Economic Forum
I had the privilege of speaking at the inaugural California Africa Climate and Economic Forum (CACEF), where we explored the tremendous opportunities for collaboration between California and Africa. The forum highlighted Africa’s rapidly growing economy, with a young and dynamic workforce driving innovation in tech, clean energy, and sustainable solutions. This event reinforced the importance of strengthening our trade and cultural partnerships with Africa, fostering a more resilient and inclusive global economy.
Dairy Farm Tour & Ribbon Cutting
On April 30th, I had the opportunity to tour the impressive new Valley Natural Beverages facility in Bakersfield before helping cut the ribbon to officially open its doors. This state-of-the-art plant will produce extended shelf life and shelf-stable products that can be shipped around the globe. Operated by California Dairies, Inc. and their nearly 300 family-owned dairy members, this facility represents the future of sustainable, high-value agricultural production. With its strategic location, commitment to efficiency, and global reach, Valley Natural Beverages is a powerful example of how California leads in both agriculture and innovation.
California State Lands Commission Updates
As Chairperson of the California State Lands Commission, we convened for our second meeting of the year in Oxnard on April 2nd. During the meeting, the Commission heard from the public about a variety of issues, including the nearby Ormond Beach Generating Station, a power plant used to provide power and electrical reliability during extreme events. The discussion is especially timely as California works to transition away from fossil fuels, strengthen our clean energy grid, and address local environmental and public health impacts.
California Coastal Commission Updates
As a member of the California Coastal Commission, we convened for a meeting on April 10th in Santa Barbara. Highlights included an announcement from the Commission on a record $18 million fine against Sable Offshore Corp. for unauthorized pipeline work along the Gaviota Coast. The Texas-based oil company continued repairs on a corroded pipeline – linked to the 2015 Refugio Oil Spill – despite lacking proper permits and defying multiple cease-and-desist orders. The fine marks one of the largest in the Commission’s history and includes orders to stop all unpermitted work and restore damaged areas. This action highlights California’s strong stance on environmental enforcement and its commitment to a clean-energy, sustainable future. s