Newsom Cancels In-Person Christmas Tree Lighting Amid Protests

The decision comes in response to planned protests by the Sacramento Regional Coalition for Palestinian Rights, leading to criticism of Newsom's avoidance of public confrontation.

California Governor Gavin Newsom cancelled the in-person Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the state Capitol, citing potential protests.
The Sacramento Regional Coalition for Palestinian Rights had planned a protest during the ceremony, criticizing Newsom's stance on the conflict in Gaza.
Despite the cancellation of the in-person event, around 200 people protested outside the Capitol.
The tree lighting ceremony will now be a pre-recorded, virtual event that will be streamed online.
Newsom's decision has been met with criticism, with some accusing him of avoiding facing public anger.