November 2025 Round-Up
November was a month of reflection, gratitude, and deep connection across California. We began by celebrating Día de los Muertos, a cherished time to honor the loved ones who came before us and to embrace the traditions that keep their memories alive.
Throughout the month, we also celebrated Native American Heritage Month by honoring the rich heritage and enduring strength of the 100+ Tribal Nations that shape our state. Their leadership, culture, and resilience continue to guide California forward.
During Transgender Awareness Week, we recognized the courage and authenticity of our transgender and gender-nonconforming neighbors. Their resilience strengthens our communities, and this week was a reminder of California’s ongoing commitment to safety, dignity, and equality for all.
We also came together on Veterans Day to honor the service members who have defended our nation and the families who stand beside them. Their sacrifice safeguards our freedoms, and I was humbled to join Californians throughout the state in expressing our gratitude.
As Thanksgiving arrived, I reflected on the kindness and community spirit that makes California such a remarkable place to call home. This season reminded me how fortunate we are to live in a state where people consistently show up for one another. I hope everyone enjoyed a safe, warm, and joyful holiday with loved ones.
As we look toward the holiday season, I remain inspired by the compassion and resilience of Californians everywhere. November closed with a full heart and with hope for the brighter days ahead.
Eleni Kounalakis
Lieutenant Governor of California
UC Tuition Stability Plan Vote
In November, I addressed the UC Board of Regents to oppose the renewal of the University of California’s (UC) Tuition Stability Plan. I emphasized that students and families are already under immense financial pressure, and tuition increases must be an absolute last resort. After visiting all 10 UC campuses, I have heard repeatedly that affordability remains the top concern for students across California. Despite those realities, the Board voted 13–3 to renew the plan, and I was proud to stand with the few Regents who voted no. I will continue fighting to keep a UC education accessible for every Californian.
Read the full press release.
Serving with GLIDE in San Francisco
In honor of Thanksgiving, I was privileged to join the incredible team at GLIDE in San Francisco to help serve breakfast to our neighbors in the Tenderloin. At a time when so many families across California are experiencing food insecurity, GLIDE continued to meet the moment with dignity, love, and compassion. I was deeply inspired by the volunteers who showed up early that morning to support their community. The day served as a reminder of the strength and generosity that define our great state.
California State Lands Update: Ormond Beach Power Plant
In November, we reached a major milestone for the Oxnard community after decades of concerns about the aging Ormond Beach Power Plant. Following seven months of negotiations, we secured a $1.5 million commitment from the operator, GenOn, for air quality monitoring and public outreach as part of their lease extension. This agreement marked meaningful progress for public health, transparency, and environmental justice in the region. I was especially grateful to the community members and the young advocates whose persistence helped make this progress possible.
San Francisco Interfaith Council’s Thanksgiving Prayer Breakfast
I was honored to join the San Francisco Interfaith Council for their 25th Annual Thanksgiving Prayer Breakfast. Being with leaders from across faith communities reminded me how powerful California’s commitment to dignity, sanctuary, and belonging truly is. Their work continues to inspire our state with compassion and service.
Fireside Chat with the California Council for Affordable Housing
Last month, I participated in a conversation with Jenna Abbott, Executive Director of the California Council for Affordable Housing (CCAH). It was an important opportunity to discuss how California can continue expanding access to quality, affordable homes in every community. I appreciated hearing directly from the developers, builders, and public agencies who make up CCAH’s membership and who are working on the ground to deliver solutions. Our conversation reaffirmed that strong collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential to meeting California’s housing needs.