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.
StateWatch
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.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
They rely on landlines for emergencies. AT&T’s political moves in California could take those away
AT&T’s failed effort this year to retire copper landlines in parts of California seemed to have support from a diverse grassroots coalition. But many of the members had ties with the telecom giant, CalMatters found.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
What veto drama and a Texas trip tell us about a potential shift in California’s homelessness strategy
California is under pressure to embrace more temporary homeless shelters and programs that require sobriety, at the potential expense of long-term housing.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Rep. Nancy Pelosi announces retirement after 38 years in Congress
The decision by Rep. Nancy Pelosi, 85, to retire comes amid Democrats’ cries for a new generation of leadership and sets the stage for a showdown between a progressive challenger and a well-known moderate state senator.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Why a new California law could change the way all Americans browse the internet
Legislation recently enacted in California will make it easier for consumers nationwide to protect their data.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California voters approve Prop 50, redrawing congressional maps to favor Democrats
California voters overwhelmingly approved Gov. Gavin Newsom’s ballot measure on Tuesday, endorsing newly drawn maps that favor Democrats.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Sen. Alex Padilla, a favorite to succeed Gavin Newsom, won’t run for California governor
Sen. Alex Padilla was never officially in the race to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom, but his national profile led many to believe that he’d be a favorite to win. He told reporters in Washington on Tuesday that he wouldn’t be throwing his hat into the ring.
Posted inHousing & Development
Why California’s historic housing law gave activists a new reason to battle the bus
Opponents to dense housing developments in Los Angeles turned their attention to transit after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law encouraging construction near bus and rail lines.