Los Angeles County GOP Chair Roxanne Hoge has called for Republican support in what she describes as a struggle against corruption in Democratic-controlled California. Speaking to Fox News Digital, Hoge expressed concern over the local government’s practices and the intense control over citizens’ lives.
Hoge’s remarks follow a viral video by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who explained a city program that matches every resident’s campaign donation sixfold. Many social media users expressed disbelief at this revelation.
Addressing the criticism, Hoge stated that people outside Los Angeles might not fully grasp the political environment in California. She explained that what many see as electoral irregularities are, in fact, legal according to city regulations.
“The rest of the country doesn’t understand what we’re living under here,” Hoge said.
Bass’ video explained that, under a city program, a $5 donation can become $35 due to a six-to-one match funded by taxpayers. This has triggered questions about the legality of using public money in political campaigns.
Billboard Chris, a conservative activist, asked how using taxpayer money for re-election campaigns is permissible. Commentator Matt Van Swol expressed bafflement over its legality.
Michael Shellenberger labeled the practice “grotesque,” while Dr. Houman David Hemmati questioned why taxpayers are forced to support campaign contributions when essential services lack funding.
Hoge clarified that the program is legal, having been adopted by voters in 1990 and later expanded. It applies to all city candidates, including those running for City Council.
She criticized the system, describing it as burdensome on taxpayers. “Taxpayers are on the hook for $6 for every dollar raised,” Hoge noted, emphasizing its expansive reach beyond just the mayoral campaigns.
Hoge shared her belief that this reflects the sentiment that fighting against the city administration is futile. This echoes a sentiment of resignation among residents.
Despite challenges, Hoge insists that California is valuable and worth defending. She characterizes it as a place where individual freedom should be safeguarded.
Peter Pinedo contributes as a politics writer for Fox News Digital.