California Democrats Stand United Against Trump’s Racist Post. Assembly Republicans in Turmoil — Some Speak Out, Many Vanish

• Nick Miller
• Communications Director
• 916-319-2029
• [email protected]

SACRAMENTO - On Monday, California State Assembly Democrats voted unanimously to pass a resolution condemning President Trump's racist social media post.

After days of silence, some Assembly Republicans belatedly followed Democrats in denouncing their president. But many Assembly GOP members refused to cast a vote on Monday - choosing evasion over accountability and antiracism.

"Donald Trump is a racist, a stain on our White House and should be removed from office. Silence is complicity, and every Republican must condemn Trump's actions," said Speaker of the Assembly Robert Rivas.

"For over 400 years, Black Americans have been the subject of dehumanization and state-sanctioned violence," said Assemblymember Isaac G. Bryan, Vice Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus. "What President Trump has done is not new. It's a reminder that racism and anti-Blackness are alive and well in his Administration, even on the 100th anniversary of Black History Month."

The resolution, authored by Assemblymember Bryan, rejects the use of racist tropes against Black Americans, condemns white supremacist messaging and reaffirms California's commitment to racial equity, dignity, and standing with those targeted by hate.

"The Assembly declares that during Black History Month, and every month, California will not tolerate racist dehumanization from the highest office in the nation, and will continue to stand with Black communities against hate and white supremacist ideology," House Resolution 84 reads.

It also calls on President Trump to issue a public apology to former President Barack Obama, former First Lady Michelle Obama and to Black Americans nationwide.

Since Trump's racist post was first shared, Democratic leaders in California have consistently called for accountability and respect from the president, emphasizing the harmful impact of racist rhetoric on California's diverse communities.

Trump's blatant racism - especially during Black History Month - falls far below the standards of dignity and responsibility expected of a national leader. Content like this fuels division, normalizes hate, and places communities of color at greater risk of harassment and violence.

The resolution passed with unanimous support from Democrats, sending a clear message that Trump's racism and divisive rhetoric will not be tolerated in California.

Of the 15 Assembly Republicans present for the vote, nine joined Democrats voting in favor - but six failed to cast a vote.