Newsom Faces Bipartisan Backlash Over Delta Tunnel

California Governor Gavin Newsom's push to fast-track the $20 billion Delta Tunnel project has met with strong resistance from a bipartisan coalition of legislators, tribal leaders, and environmental groups. Opponents argue the plan would bypass environmental protections, threaten tribal cultural resources, devastate local fisheries, and impose financial burdens on ratepayers. The Delta Caucus and tribal organizations are leading efforts against the project, warning of severe impacts on the Delta ecosystem and communities. Proponents, mainly Southern California and Bay Area water agencies, maintain the tunnel is vital for water reliability amid climate change. Lawmakers suggest exploring less harmful alternatives, including water recycling, levee fortification, and groundwater storage. The dispute highlights deep divisions over the future of California's water management.