California Gov. Gavin Newsom launches media grant program amid criticism

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the California Civic Media Program, a public‑private partnership with Google that will offer grants of up to $250,000 to eligible California news outlets that produce what the state calls fact‑based reporting. Critics say the initiative blurs the line between independent journalism and government‑funded media, raising concerns about politicians influencing which organizations receive taxpayer money. Journalist Nick Shirley, who previously uncovered alleged hospice and daycare fraud, was publicly mocked by Newsom, adding to the controversy. The program is funded with taxpayer dollars and has drawn pushback from media watchdogs and reporters who argue it could turn state‑funded outlets into de‑facto PR tools for the governor.