California can use a new voter-approved U.S. House map that is designed to boost Democrats in the 2026 midterms, a federal three-judge panel ruled Wednesday.
StateWatch
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Santa Ana protester blinded in one eye after federal agent fired projectile from close range, relative says
Kaden Rummler, 21, was blinded in his left eye after he was shot at close range by a federal agent during a protest last week outside a federal immigration building in Santa Ana, his aunt said.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Proposed billionaires tax in California rattles Silicon Valley, entangles Newsom
A proposed tax on billionaires in California has ignited a political uproar in Silicon Valley, with tech titans threatening to leave the state while Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom maneuvers to defeat a levy that he fears will lead to an exodus of wealth.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Gavin Newsom’s legacy: Can he deliver on unmet promises in his final year as governor?
Under Gavin Newsom’s tenure, health care has been expanded, but his housing goals and homelessness pledges remain unfinished. Can he deliver before eyeing the White House?
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California’s last nuclear power plant faces renewed scrutiny as it gains latest permit
The California Coastal Commission is requiring the state’s last nuclear power plant – Diablo Canyon, near San Luis Obispo – to conserve 4,000 acres of surrounding land to keep operating until 2030.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Newsom closed 4 prisons and trimmed payroll. Corrections spending is still over budget
California’s $17.5 billion prison system is over budget, contributing to a projected state deficit. Some groups want Gov. Gavin Newsom to close more prisons.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Up to 61,000 truck drivers in California could soon lose their licenses. Here’s why
The Trump administration is cracking down on immigrants who drive trucks in California, creating new regulations and threatening to withhold millions in federal highway funding over alleged violations by the state’s DMV. Gov. Gavin Newsom says those allegations are a lie.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California is still in the red with another big budget deficit projected for next year
California’s independent legislative analyst is warning that the state faces a nearly $18 billion deficit. It is “critical” for lawmakers to rein in spending and increase revenues long term, he said.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Billionaire activist Tom Steyer joins race to succeed Newsom as California governor
Liberal billionaire Tom Steyer raised his profile as a foe to President Donald Trump when he spent $13 million on ads touting Proposition 50. Now, Steyer is jumping into the 2026 California governor’s race.
Posted inHousing & Development
More housing on the California coast? Changes at this agency signal a pro-building shift
Three new pro-development appointees at the powerful California Coastal Commission are trying to remedy its poor reputation among housing activists and Democratic leaders.