Tito Ortiz Leaves California Citing Crime, Endorses Challenger for Governor Newsom
HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. — Tito Ortiz, former UFC light heavyweight champion and once mayor pro tempore of Huntington Beach, announced his relocation from California to Florida, attributing the move to concerns over rising crime and governance under Governor Gavin Newsom. Ortiz, 51, who built his career and family life in California, expressed deep disappointment with the state’s leadership, saying he was compelled to leave to protect his children’s safety.
“I never wanted to leave California,” Ortiz told Fox News Digital. “But I left because of the crime, the fraud and the growing threat to the safety of my children. Like millions of other parents, I made the difficult decision to move my family to Florida — not for opportunity, but for protection. No parent should ever be forced to flee their home state to keep their children safe.”
Ortiz’s comments come amid ongoing debates over public safety and governance in California, where crime rates have been a contentious issue. His departure highlights a broader trend of residents citing safety concerns as a reason for leaving the state. According to data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics, certain urban areas in California have experienced fluctuations in crime rates over recent years, fueling public debate.
In a political turn, Ortiz endorsed Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who is mounting a challenge against Newsom in the 2026 gubernatorial election. Bianco, known for his tough stance on crime and law enforcement, has positioned himself as a candidate focused on restoring public safety and addressing what he describes as “California’s decline under current leadership.”
Ortiz’s move to Florida, a state that has seen an influx of former Californians, aligns with a broader migration pattern. Florida’s policies on crime and governance have attracted many seeking alternatives to California’s approach. The U.S. Census Bureau reports significant population shifts between states, with Florida among the top recipients of new residents.
Governor Newsom’s office responded to Ortiz’s remarks with a brief statement: “We’re not sure who Tito Ortiz is, but we wish him well. Bye!” This dismissive reply reflects the often polarized political environment surrounding California’s leadership and critics.
Ortiz’s journey from celebrated athlete to local politician and now outspoken critic of California’s governance underscores the intersection of public safety concerns and political activism. His endorsement of Sheriff Bianco adds momentum to the Republican challenger’s campaign, which has gained attention amid growing dissatisfaction among some voters.
As the 2026 election approaches, debates over crime, governance, and quality of life continue to shape California’s political landscape. Residents like Ortiz, who once championed their communities, are now vocal about their reasons for leaving, spotlighting the challenges facing the state’s leadership.
For more information on crime statistics and public safety initiatives, visit the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program and the California Department of Justice. These agencies provide comprehensive data and resources on law enforcement efforts and crime trends across the state.
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