Californians torch Gavin Newsoms chilling Stop Nick Shirley Act teeing up huge clash with feds

Gavin Newsom has been slammed for signing a controversial privacy law that critics have branded the “Stop Nick Shirley Act” — setting the stage for a potential First Amendment fight.The law, introduced by Democratic Assemblymember Mia Bonta, expands the state’s address-protection program to immigration-service workers.Supporters say it protects workers from threats and doxing, while critics argue it could hinder journalists and investigators from doing their job.The nickname refers to Nick Shirley, a conservative citizen journalist who has gained attention for videos investigating government-funded programs and confronting workers at various facilities.Republians across California tore into Newsom for signing it into law Saturday, saying they want the federal government to intervene before it takes effect.Republican Assemblymember Carl DeMaio said Sunday he is asking the Justice Department to step in and block it.“I ultimately believe that this has to go to court because clearly our politicians don’t give a damn about our First Amendment rights.But this is a bad pattern of behavior,” he told the California Post.The Post has reached out to the Department of Justice for comment on whether it plans to intervene.

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Tony Strickland also accused Newsom and Democratic lawmakers of attacking basic constitutional protections rather than welcoming scrutiny of government spending.“It goes against everything we have here in America, but with the vague language, it’s shutting down speech and the freedom of the press,” Strickland told The Post.“Every person and every taxpayer, every person should be able to ask questions and hold our government accountable.”Strickland predicted the law cou...