Under state law, public funds can’t be used for running for office, but legislation introduced by Sen. Tom Umberg seeks to change that, so long as the money isn’t specifically set aside for education, transportation or public safety. Public funds, as defined by the bill, are money given to a candidate by a state or local government to help them run for office. Even if the bill passes out of the legislature and gets the governor’s signature, it will still be up to California voters to decide whether to lift the ban. It would be a question before voters in November 2026. Supporters of public financing say it helps reduce the influence of money in politics and gives qualified candidates a chance to run without being discouraged by the high cost of campaigning.

Umberg, D-Santa Ana, said his bill does not require every city to use public financing.

“Some cities will welcome to the ability to (use public financing), some cities will not use the tool, and that’s ok,” he said. “Right now, it’s prohibited by law, and this simply allows local jurisdictions to use it.” Umberg said his bill “simply empowers local governments” to opt into using public financing, “whether it’s through vouchers or some sort of matching fund.” “There are a multitude of models concerning public financing,” he said. 

Umberg had introduced the bill in the previous legislative session, but it didn’t pass. He attributed the failure partly to a lack of urgency, given that the 2026 general election was still several years away. Umberg’s bill has been referred to the Senate Rules Committee.

Read more in the Orange County Register: https://www.ocregister.com/2025/02/17/california-voters-may-decide-if-cities-can-fund-local-campaigns-with-public-money/