California’s legislature has passed a bill dubbed the “Stop Nick Shirley Act,” a move that critics argue is designed to criminalize investigative journalism that exposes political corruption. The measure, AB 2624, now sits on Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk for final approval.
The bill’s namesake, Nick Shirley, is an independent journalist known for confronting public officials and posting undercover videos. His work has included alleging election fraud and other government misconduct, which has drawn the ire of California’s Democratic leadership.
What the Bill Does
According to PJ Media, the legislation would effectively make it illegal to engage in the kind of undercover reporting Shirley has made his trademark. Supporters frame it as a privacy protection measure, but opponents see it as a direct assault on First Amendment rights.
“The First Amendment protects exposés on fraud,” the PJ Media piece argues. “California Democrats are on the verge of criminalizing such exposés, however, because their power is dependent on election fraud, taxpayer funding fraud, sanctuary policies, and a two-tiered justice system.”
The bill is sponsored by Assemblymember Mia Bonta, who is married to California Attorney General Rob Bonta. That connection has fueled criticism that the measure is personal. In a video posted online, Shirley confronts Mia Bonta directly, and she appears to try to cut him off and walk away before a staffer intervenes.
Shirley’s Reporting
Shirley’s reporting has included a viral video appearing to show a California woman registered to vote at age 126, who had apparently cast ballots in 51 elections without her knowledge. The video was presented as evidence of widespread voter fraud in the state.
Critics of the bill also point to California’s sanctuary policies and its treatment of ICE agents. PJ Media reports that the state has seen an 8,000% increase in death threats against ICE personnel and a 1,300% rise in assaults, following the promotion of a portal that allowed residents to dox officers. The article alleges that Governor Newsom has justified anti-ICE rioters and even thanked protestors for interfering with arrests.
Context of Free Speech
The bill arrives amid ongoing debates over free speech in California. Governor Newsom has previously touted the state as the “true freedom state” for banning book bans, while Attorney General Bonta has enforced laws requiring schools to withhold information about gender transitioning from parents. Critics argue that these stances prioritize ideology over constitutional protections.
“Obviously, the so-called banned books were never about free speech,” the PJ Media piece states. “They were always about California Democrats sanctioning their aggressive grooming of young children.”
If Governor Newsom signs the bill into law, it would take effect immediately, making California the first state to pass such legislation. A rally opposing the bill is planned for August 26 at the state Capitol in Sacramento.
Source: pjmedia.com — https://pjmedia.com/catherinesalgado/2026/08/21/the-state-that-called-grooming-and-riots-free-speech-passes-stop-nick-shirley-act-n4956388
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Do your own research and consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions.
