How California Spent Natural Disaster Funds to Quell Student Protests for Palestine
California officials diverted millions of dollars meant for wildfire and earthquake relief to suppress pro-Palestine student protests, according to leaked documents. The reallocation, which funded riot police and surveillance, has ignited legal challenges and public outrage.
Disaster Funds Misused for Protest Crackdowns
State and local governments tapped into the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) budget—a reserve for natural disasters—to deploy armored vehicles, overtime police, and barricades at UC Berkeley, UCLA, and other campuses. Over $5 million was shifted from disaster preparedness to cover protest-related enforcement, despite legal restrictions on such spending.
Internal memos reveal university administrators requested state assistance, citing “unrest” from student-led demonstrations demanding divestment from Israel and a Gaza ceasefire. Instead of using existing law enforcement budgets, officials drained emergency reserves, raising ethical and legal alarms.
Legal Battles and Public Outcry
Civil rights groups, including the ACLU, have sued the state, arguing the spending violates California’s emergency funding laws. “These funds exist to save lives during wildfires—not to silence protesters,” said State Senator Aisha Wahab. Legal experts warn the state could face costly reimbursements if courts rule against it.
Protest organizers accuse the government of criminalizing dissent. “They’re exploiting disaster funds to target human rights advocacy,” said UCLA student Leila Hassan. Meanwhile, emails show campus leaders pushed Governor Newsom’s office for additional security, though protesters insist demonstrations were peaceful before police escalation.
Political Repercussions
The scandal has deepened divisions in California politics:
– Progressives demand accountability for “blatant misuse” of taxpayer money.
– Republicans blame Governor Newsom for “mismanagement,” calling it proof of misplaced priorities.
Newsom’s office defends the spending, claiming protests posed an “imminent safety threat.” Yet, no evidence links student rallies to disasters warranting Cal OES intervention.
Long-Term Risks: Disaster Preparedness in Jeopardy
Critics warn siphoning emergency funds sets a dangerous precedent, especially as climate change escalates wildfire and earthquake risks. “Will California be ready for the next crisis—or will funds be wasted on policing protests?” asked disaster expert Dr. Raj Patel.
What Comes Next?
With lawsuits underway and lawmakers probing the fund diversion, California may overhaul emergency spending rules. The scandal underscores growing concerns about protest militarization and government transparency.
—NextMinuteNews Investigation Team
