At San Quentin, Newsom shows off the anti-Trump model of public safety - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Anita Chabria

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Governor Gavin Newsom recently visited San Quentin prison to highlight a groundbreaking transformation in California’s approach to public safety. The new San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, featuring classrooms with ocean views, self-serve kitchens, libraries, cafes, and even a film studio, represents a shift toward a more progressive model of incarceration focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment. This approach emphasizes personal decision-making, job skills, education, and mentorship from guards, aiming to prepare inmates for successful reintegration into society after release. The traditional “lock-and-leave” approach to prisons has proven ineffective, as most inmates return to the same challenges that led to their incarceration. Newsom’s model draws inspiration from European practices and prioritizes treating incarcerated individuals with humanity, fostering a sense of responsibility and self-worth. By addressing the reality that 95% of prisoners will eventually be released, the goal is to create better neighbors by equipping them with skills, emotional resilience, and opportunities for growth. Critics, including those aligned with former President Trump’s “tough-on-crime” rhetoric, argue that such reforms coddle criminals. However, the evidence suggests that punitive measures alone fail to reduce recidivism rates or improve public safety. Studies show that prisoners who participate in education and job training programs are less likely to reoffend. By investing in rehabilitation, Newsom’s approach aims to break the cycle of incarceration and create a more stable, safer community for all. This innovative model challenges outdated notions of justice and highlights the importance of viewing incarcerated individuals as people capable of change. As the article notes, “Humanity is safety,” and treating inmates with dignity can lead to better outcomes for both individuals and society. The success of this approach will likely influence broader debates about criminal justice reform and public safety in California and beyond.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/24/2026