Gov. Gavin Newsom last week reached out to the public for suggestions on designing a new $1 coin commemorating California’s innovations. The coin is scheduled for release in 2026.
“Calling all members of the Tortured Coin Designers Department,” the governor wrote on social media April 25, with a reference to Taylor Swift’s new album. “We need your help! What is a CA innovation you'd like to see featured on the coin?”
When reflecting on California’s innovation, minds often turn to Silicon Valley and its technological advancements, alongside the state’s ambitious endeavors to combat climate change through initiatives like clean energy.
However, Mr. Newsom received some sarcastic replies this time. One of the points of criticism was the worsening homeless crisis in the state.
Jim Stanley, press secretary for the State Assembly Republicans, submitted his ideas with a letter to the governor, emphasizing the funds allocated to address homelessness.
“Under your bold leadership, California has developed a truly unrivaled method of incinerating money,” Mr. Stanley wrote in the letter obtained by The Epoch Times. “While most people would think it impossible to spend $24 billion on homelessness only to see the problem grow rapidly, you have proved the naysayers wrong.”
All four of the designs he submitted depicted scenes of homeless encampments surrounding modern buildings, palm trees, or state flags.
“It would only be appropriate to select one of the designs ... that recognize the condition of California’s streets, parks and sidewalks that have resulted from your leadership.”
Some other critiques targeted the governor’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic and the state’s budget deficit. One of the designs featured a mask at the center of the coin, atop the Golden State map, surrounded by batteries.
Others also suggested depicting illegal immigrants and drug issues on the coin.
