California Speaker Rivas Removes GOP Lawmakers from Key Committees

California Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas has removed several prominent Republican lawmakers from key committee positions, a move some perceive as retaliatory for their outspoken criticism of the Democratic supermajority's handling of state issues. Among those affected are Assemblymembers Carl DeMaio and Alexandra Macedo, both of whom have been vocal about state spending and policy decisions. Rivas used a resolution allowing him to make such changes, which breaks from traditional practices that typically afford minority leaders some say in committee assignments. Democrats defended the reshuffling as a necessary step to ensure effective governance, while Republicans argue it undermines their representation and silences dissenting voices. The reshuffle has sparked responses from those removed, with the lawmakers vowing to continue questioning the majority party's decisions. This situation highlights the contentious political climate in California's legislature, where power dynamics are heavily influenced by party majorities.