Assemblyman Kevin Kiley is pushing for the recall of Gov. Gavin Newsom. The lawmaker was in Fresno on Tuesday to sign copies of his book “Recall Newsom: The Case Against America’s Most Corrupt Governor” while advocating for Newsom’s removal.

Kiley, R-Rocklin, said Newsom has abused his power, with the lockdown causing “incalculable harm.”

“You’ve had a governor who’s used the the coronavirus state of emergency to advance his own political self interests and has in the process, collapsed our entire system of government into a one-man rule; has richly rewarded the the wealthy special interest groups that put him in office,” Kiley said.

Also in Politics 101: 

• When could a recall take place?.
• BizFed touts virtual lobbying.
• A new job for Nathan Ahle.

Recall Could Happen in the Fall

Signing books outside of the Yosemite Falls Café on Blackstone Avenue — which is offering indoor dining despite the state’s pandemic rules — Kiley sat next to a Recall Newsom petition-gathering table. The assemblyman has not endorsed a possible successor.

“I’ve heard great things about the folks here in Fresno who are gathering many, many signatures and have been a key part of this whole movement,” Kiley said.

Organizers say they have gathered 1.8 million signatures; 1.4 million are needed to qualify for the ballot. If verified, a recall could take place in the fall.

Kiley’s stop in Fresno was at the invitation of Beth Garland Justin, a grassroots recall supporter. He was on the way to a similar event in Bakersfield later in the afternoon.

BizFed Lobbies in Sacramento

Lobbying is different because of the pandemic. Normally, BizFed — a group that represents a wide range of business interests both in the Valley and across California — organizes a grand event for their lobbing day at the state Capitol.

But in 2021, things had to be done virtually for a weeklong event last week. The group lobbied on behalf of better internet access and for transportation funds.

“Sacramento Week was eye-opening on so many levels and the opportunity to partner with BizFed Los Angeles, to bring the needs of the Central Valley to top of mind for these decision-makers was invaluable,” said William Bourdeau, chair of BizFed Central Valley. “We’re not looking for a handout. We just want a fair shot at having our unique needs addressed.”

New Job for Ahle

Nathan Ahle, late of the Fresno Chamber of Commerce, is now the president/CEO of the Tulare County Economic Development Corporation. He started his new job this week.

“I’m excited for this new opportunity to work along a great team of volunteers and staff to help bring more jobs to Tulare County. The Valley is our home and it’s a pleasure to stay involved in such a great place,” Ahle said.

Ahle’s role will be to help develop jobs and assist businesses for the private non-profit agency. His departure after five years from the Fresno Chamber in January came as a surprise to many.