Expect four more years of combative showdowns between California’s Democratic leadership and a second Trump White House.
Nov. 5 general election 2024
Mood swings across party lines for Santa Cruz County voters
From confident Trump supporters to anxious Democrats and those serving many undocumented Santa Cruz County residents at Watsonville Community Hospital, Election Day brought a mix of emotions around the county.
California’s path hinges on the presidential race: ‘No state has more to lose or gain’
State officials, business leaders and immigrant advocates are all preparing for whoever wins the presidential election. California’s response will be very different, depending on whether it’s Kamala Harris or Donald Trump.
These California toss-ups may decide which party controls Congress
Closely contested congressional races in California could tip the balance on whether Democrats can retake control of the U.S. House. This year, it’s Republicans on defense.
Santa Cruz County struggles to come to grips with Election Day anxiety
Like many other locales in the U.S., Santa Cruz County is grappling with the climax of a yearslong campaign for president on Election Day. Poet Ellen Bass points to poetry as a source of solace and inspiration. Sven Davis refers to his “Nail-Biter” Election Night event as a way for people to disconnect from the stress of the moment.
In the Public Interest: Election Day, turnout predictions, and local thoughts on Prop 36
With Election Day tomorrow, Christopher Neely goes inside Santa Cruz County politics and policy in his weekly newsletter.
Skeptical voters asking ‘different’ questions compared to previous elections, county clerk says
As Election Day tensions run high nationwide, Santa Cruz County Clerk Trisha Webber foresees a smooth election locally, but says questions from voters this year have reflected the broader sense of skepticism around the electoral process.
Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what this election might mean for the most vulnerable
On the eve of Election Day, it’s important to keep in mind those most vulnerable to persecution. Everyone has something to lose in this election, but for some, those stakes are highest.
A Lookout View: Our Nov. 5 endorsements
The Lookout Editorial Board writes endorsements because we believe a strong, trustworthy, independent and nonpartisan local news organization owes its community a stand-back, whole view of the candidates and measures before us, based on extensive one-on-one interviews. And, on your behalf, we look for four factors in making our recommendations: voting and other decision-making records, experience, judgment and political skills – and how the candidacy (or measure) meets the moment.
Election workers quit in Shasta County as self-appointed observers roam office
Voters are legally allowed to enter the office and observe the election process. One recently resigned Shasta County worker said a lot of them, however, are on edge and “very angry.” “They want to catch us in a lie, so they’ll try to trick you into saying something,” he said. “A lot of times they’ll be secretly videotaping you or recording you.”

