May 2025 Round-Up

As we wrapped up May, I was once again reminded why I’m so proud to serve the people of California. Even in a tough budget year, we’re proving that it’s possible to stay true to our values—investing in housing, public education, and bold climate action—without raising taxes on working families. I commend Governor Newsom for putting forward a May Revise that protects key priorities such as restoring cuts to the UC and CSU systems, because access to affordable, high-quality higher education must remain a cornerstone of our future. 

Throughout May, we also took time to honor the communities, heroes, and small businesses that make California the special place we call home. We celebrated Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and Jewish American Heritage Month, recognizing the rich cultural contributions, history, and resilience of our AAPI and Jewish communities, both of which are essential to California’s identity. 

As we marked Mental Health Awareness Month, we reaffirmed our commitment to building a state where every person feels seen, heard, and supported. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that help is available: just call or text 988. 

We also honored the brave Californians who put their lives on the line to keep us safe. I was deeply humbled to attend memorial ceremonies honoring our fallen peace officers. And on Memorial Day, we paused to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice made by those who served our country. Their memory lives on in our work to protect the freedoms they fought for. 

And finally, during Small Business Month, we uplifted the entrepreneurs and local leaders who remain the backbone of California’s economy. Small businesses account for over 99% of all businesses in California and employ nearly 7 million people. Your hard work and innovation drive our communities forward, and we’re proud to support you.  

No matter the challenge, California leads with courage and hope. We don’t back down from hard choices, and we don’t leave anyone behind. Thank you for your continued partnership as we keep working to build a stronger, fairer, and more resilient future for all. 

With optimism and gratitude,  

Eleni Kounalakis
Lieutenant Governor of California

Championing California’s Students: CSU & UC Campus Tour Completion 

This month, we completed a milestone that has been years in the making: visiting all 23 California State University (CSU) and all 10 University of California (UC) campuses. As the only person to serve on the governing boards of the UC, CSU, and California Community Colleges, I’ve seen firsthand how our public higher education institutions drive innovation, equity, and opportunity. From Bakersfield to Berkeley, every stop reinforced why we must fight for the resources, affordability, and support our students deserve.  

Read the full recap of my visits here.  

Harvey Milk Day 

On May 22, I joined Californians across the state to honor what would have been Harvey Milk’s 95th birthday. As one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States, Harvey shattered barriers, and his courage continues to inspire generations. His life and legacy guide our ongoing fight for justice, equality, and visibility, especially in today’s political climate. It was a day to reflect, recommit, and celebrate the power of being unapologetically yourself. 

Celebrating 60 Years of PPOSBC 

On May 8, I was honored to join Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties (PPOSBC) in celebrating 60 years of life-saving care. I sat down with their leadership for a powerful conversation about the essential services they provide, especially in the face of unrelenting attacks on reproductive freedom. As one of the largest Planned Parenthood affiliates in the country, PPOSBC is leading with compassion and innovation. Their Abortion Aid program continues to support out-of-state patients with dignity and care. I remain committed to ensuring that California remains a beacon for reproductive rights. 

10 Years of Global Investment with Select LA  

It was an honor to deliver the keynote address at the 10th anniversary of the Select LA Investment Summit. I joined global investors, business leaders, and elected officials to celebrate a decade of economic partnership and growth. With over 18,000 foreign-owned enterprises supporting more than 814,000 jobs in California, it’s clear: international investment powers our economy. My remarks highlighted California’s unmatched innovation, strong workforce, and commitment to a sustainable global economy. Select LA is proof that our state remains the most dynamic place on earth to invest, grow, and lead. 

Europe Day Reception 

On May 13, I celebrated Europe Day with the European Commission and our partners in the European Union (EU). With $65.5 billion in two-way trade and the EU as California’s top source of foreign investment, our transatlantic relationship is more important than ever. We reaffirmed our shared values—democracy, innovation, sustainability—and our commitment to strengthening economic and cultural ties. California is proud to be the EU’s most trusted partner on the West Coast. Together, we’re shaping a future that’s open, green, and inclusive. 

Housing with California YIMBY 

On May 20, I was proud to speak at California YIMBY’s 2025 Lobby Day, where I participated in a fireside chat with co-founder Brian Hanlon on housing policy. We’re at a tipping point in California’s housing crisis, and I shared stories that fuel my advocacy, including a grandmother whose grandson faced housing insecurity while at UC Berkeley. Since taking office, I’ve helped approve nearly 50,000 new student beds across CSU and UC campuses, but we must go further. California YIMBY’s work is pushing for bold, necessary policies that prioritize affordability and accessibility. Their advocacy is helping to build a future where all Californians can live, work, and thrive. 

An Evening with the Marin County Women Lawyers 

I was honored to join the Marin County Women Lawyers (MCWL) for their 31st Annual Business and Professional Women’s Dinner as this year’s featured speaker. In my fireside chat with board member Mary McClain, we spoke about why women’s leadership matters, especially in moments of political change. Today, nearly half of California’s legislators are women, up from just 22% in 2022. That’s real progress, but we’re not done yet. Organizations like MCWL are vital in uplifting the next generation of women leaders, especially in law and public service.  

Commencement at Archer School for Girls 

On May 23, I had the privilege of delivering the Commencement Address to the Class of 2025 at the Archer School for Girls. In a time of political instability, I spoke about the critical importance of women’s leadership and why this new generation of graduates must be ready to step up. Archer’s mission to empower young women to discover their voices and lead with confidence is more urgent than ever. From a converted dance studio to a thriving campus, Archer’s journey mirrors that of its students: bold, resilient, and inspiring. I’m deeply honored to have played a role in launching this incredible class into their next chapter. 

California’s Clean Energy Milestone 

California continues to lead the nation in the clean energy transition. Since 2019, the state’s battery storage capacity has surged by 1,944%, now exceeding 15,700 megawatts. This transformational growth is helping power a safer, more reliable, and sustainable electric grid for all Californians. Thanks to bold climate leadership from Governor Newsom, California is proving what’s possible when we invest in innovative solutions to tackle the climate crisis and build a greener future.