Hundreds of demonstrators gathered at the California State Capitol to protest President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed mass deportation plans. Carrying banners with messages such as “Not one cent for mass deportation” and “MAGA out of California,” protesters urged state legislators to oppose federal immigration enforcement efforts.

Governor Gavin Newsom also launched his special sessions to “Trump proof” the state. In a statement, Newsom said, “The freedoms we hold dear in California are under attack, and we won’t sit idle.”

California has a history of resisting federal immigration policies, notably through Senate Bill 54, which limits local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities. State leaders, including Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta, have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting immigrant communities. Newsom has proposed additional funding for legal battles against anticipated federal actions, while Bonta emphasized that California will not use state or local resources to assist in mass deportations.

The protest reflects widespread concern among Californians about the potential impact of Trump’s immigration policies on the state’s diverse population. Advocacy groups and state officials are preparing to challenge federal initiatives that may infringe upon the rights of immigrants, aiming to uphold California’s sanctuary policies and commitment to inclusion.