Spade Criticized Newsom Over Vetoed Homelessness Bills
The comedian slammed Governor Gavin Newsom for blocking legislation intended to improve homelessness spending oversight.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Should your state government be required to publish line-by-line transparency for all homelessness program spending?
David Spade recently criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for vetoing two bills aimed at increasing transparency for state homelessness programs. The governor argued that existing legislative frameworks already addressed the oversight requirements proposed in the measures.
Why it matters
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions regarding the state's accountability for billions in homelessness spending. Transparency remains a central issue following reports of inconsistent tracking across various state initiatives.
California allocated approximately $24 billion to homelessness programs through the 2022-23 fiscal year. An April 2024 state audit found inconsistent tracking across the state's numerous housing and homelessness initiatives.
The players
David Spade
An actor and comedian who has publicly engaged in political commentary regarding California state spending.
Gavin Newsom
The current Governor of California who is responsible for signing or vetoing state legislation.
The details
Governor Newsom vetoed AB 2570 in July 2024 and AB 2903 in September 2024, bills that would have required annual reporting on program costs and outcomes. While Spade highlighted concerns regarding $20 billion in funds, the state maintains that current budget language already requires necessary evaluation.
Timeline
1979: The last time the California legislature successfully overrode a governor's veto.
Through 2022-23: The period covering $24 billion in total homelessness spending.
April 2024: Release of a state audit citing inconsistent program tracking.
July 2024: Governor Newsom vetoed AB 2570.
September 2024: Governor Newsom vetoed AB 2903.
Market Landscape
The debate follows a shift toward heightened oversight of state-funded social services following the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention program audits. The conflict underscores a broader trend of federal and state agencies intensifying scrutiny of non-profit and public homelessness spending.
Residents may see continued volatility in how homelessness programs are managed and funded across the state. The ongoing federal task force investigation may eventually lead to shifts in which agencies or organizations receive future state grant funding.
The takeaway
Legislative gridlock in Sacramento often limits the ability to reform established spending programs through new mandates. Citizens should monitor state audit results to track how tax dollars are utilized for long-term social services.
Further reading
For more on the state's efforts to manage charitable and public sector initiatives, visit our California Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Washington Times.
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Should your state government be required to publish line-by-line transparency for all homelessness program spending?
