California High-Speed Rail Authority

California’s high-speed rail project, previously reliant on taxpayer funding, now seeks private investors. A $25 million agreement with a consortium of companies aims to explore funding strategies to expand the project beyond the Central Valley, with plans to eventually connect San Francisco and Los Angeles by 2040.

Residents in California’s Central Valley are frustrated with changes to the California High-Speed Rail Authority's plans. The first phase aims to connect Merced to Bakersfield by 2033, with eventual expansion to Anaheim, Los Angeles, and San Francisco by 2040.

California mayors, including Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, oppose Governor Gavin Newsom's high-speed rail project, warning it could legally and fiscally exploit local tax bases to fund the $126 billion system. The 2026 Draft Business Plan proposes redirecting local tax revenues near rail stations, which mayors argue undermines local governance and constitutional protections. The California High-Speed Rail Authority denies finalizing such a plan but acknowledges exploring funding tools.

California mayors, including Jerry Dyer of Fresno, oppose Gov. Gavin Newsom's high-speed rail plan, warning it could divert local tax revenues to fund the $126 billion project. The High-Speed Rail Authority denies capturing local funds, while critics highlight fiscal recklessness and legal risks. The project, delayed for nearly two decades, faces scrutiny over cost overruns and funding strategies.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom faced criticism from Bill Maher on his HBO show over leadership issues, including surging gas prices and the troubled $231 billion high-speed rail project. Newsom defended the project, blaming previous administrations, while Maher argued for abandoning it.