Gavin Newsom Expresses Optimism Regarding Hollywood Strike Resolution After Discussions with WGA and Studios.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has conveyed his sense of optimism concerning the Hollywood strike’s outcome following talks with representatives from the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Hollywood studios last week. He disclosed that another meeting had been scheduled for the upcoming week during an interview with CNN’s Dana Bash, aired on Monday night.
In the interview, which shifts its focus to the strike approximately four minutes in, Bash initially sought Newsom’s perspective on the ongoing auto workers’ strike, to which he expressed robust support. In addressing his attempt to navigate the complexities of mediating between both sides of the Hollywood strike, Newsom stated, “I’m encouraged by the conversations over this last weekend, [but] I’m not going to overstate that. And I’m encouraged that they’re meeting later this week.”
Newsom affirmed his unwavering support for SAG-AFTRA and WGA, acknowledging the “existential stress” faced by these guilds that eventually prompted them to initiate the strike. He pointed out that the cumulative impact of this anxiety, combined with the ongoing concerns about income inequality and post-pandemic challenges, has created a palpable sense of distress across the nation. “I believe in collective bargaining; I believe working families and the working poor do better when they organize together,” he emphasized.
However, Newsom refrained from committing to sign SB799, a bill recently approved by both chambers of the California legislature. If enacted into law, this bill would grant unemployment benefits to striking workers. The governor explained that he believes the bill will not affect the WGA strike since it takes effect in January, presumably anticipating the resolution of the Hollywood strike before that date. Additionally, Newsom expressed concerns about the “unfunded liability,” exceeding $18 million, associated with the bill. He did, however, assert his intention to “take a look at that” while reiterating that there is “no direct correlation” with the ongoing strike.
