CA AG Rob Bonta on Trump's Oath Breaking and Lawsuits

California's Key Lawsuits

• 💡 The first two cases filed by California are highlighted as particularly meaningful and representative of the state's values.
• 🎯 The first case challenged President Trump's attempt to amend the Constitution and end birthright citizenship with an executive order.
• ⚖️ Another significant case involved blocking the rescission of congressionally appropriated funding via an OMB memo, which put $168 billion for California at risk.

Protecting Constitutional Rights

• 🚀 The Attorney General emphasizes the importance of protecting core constitutional rights, including the right to vote and birthright citizenship.
• ⚠️ These rights are seen as fundamental, with the right to vote being the foundation from which all other rights flow.

Funding and Legal Expenses

• 💰 The discussion addresses the $25 million allocated for legal efforts, clarifying that the $5 million drawn down has been spent entirely on internal legal staff (attorneys and paralegals).
• 🚫 No funds have been spent on outside counsel, with the department aiming to handle litigation internally due to its strong legal team.
• 📊 The success and metrics of the department's work are presented as proof of their internal capabilities.

Trump's Oath and Actions

• 📜 The Attorney General points out that President Trump allegedly broke his oath to uphold the Constitution on his first day in office by attempting to unlawfully amend it regarding birthright citizenship.
• 📌 The OM memo case protected funding for essential services such as housing, healthcare, childcare, and disaster relief.