2025 in Review: Seven Questions for Board of Equalization Candidate Assemblymember Mike Gipson

December 22, 2025

California Assemblymember Mike Gipson, a Democrat from Carson, is completing his final year in the state Legislature after reaching term limits and is currently campaigning for a seat on the State Board of Equalization. The Watts native, who previously served as the longest-tenured Assembly Democratic Caucus Chair in state history, highlights his successful 2024 legislation on ghost guns and his ongoing efforts to secure funding for Black-serving institutions across California. Despite frustrations with budget cuts and federal immigration enforcement tactics, Gipson was inspired by Governor Newsom's resistance to federal overreach and draws on his experience as chair of the Revenue and Taxation Committee.

Who is affected

Black and Brown communities victimized by ghost guns and mass shootings
Black-serving institutions across California seeking funding
Historically Black Universities (HBCUs) facing federal attacks
Immigrant communities, specifically Haitians and Dominicans targeted by ICE
Residents of Altadena (a historically African American community) and the Palisades affected by losses in 2025
Black Californians facing what Gipson characterizes as "Trumpism"
Voters in Gipson's district and the State Board of Equalization district

What action is being taken

Gipson is running for the State Board of Equalization
Gipson is organizing Black-serving institutions across California to rally behind renewed funding efforts
Governor Newsom is standing up against federal policies and protecting California's autonomy
Gipson is serving as chair of the Revenue and Taxation Committee, shaping tax policy
ICE is conducting militarized operations in Los Angeles streets

Why it matters

This matters because it demonstrates California's efforts to address gun violence through ghost gun regulation, protect educational institutions serving Black communities from federal defunding, and maintain state autonomy against federal overreach. Gipson's work on tax policy directly impacts communities recovering from disasters, while his leadership represents continuity in advocating for Black Californians' interests during a period of federal hostility toward minority communities and institutions. His transition from the Legislature to potentially overseeing the state's property tax system would allow him to continue influencing policies affecting vulnerable communities.

What's next

In 2026, Gipson will attempt to pass AB 335 again with a smaller funding amount for Black-serving institutions
Gipson aims to finish his final legislative term strong and with purpose
Gipson hopes voters will elect him to the Board of Equalization in 2026
Black-serving institutions will rally behind the renewed funding effort

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint