State GovernmentCalifornia’s budget projections rely heavily on a continued AI boomJanuary 9, 2026 | Ruth FinchGovernor Gavin Newsom’s proposed budget notes a volatile market could risk revenue streams, but projections from the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office warns against assuming growth will continue.
State Government5 states sue Trump administration for withholding billions in social safety net fundsJanuary 9, 2026Attorneys general in five Democratic-led states has filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump’s administration after it said it would freeze money for several public benefit programs.
EducationSchools chief was caught off guard by Newsom’s plan to pare down the future scope of his jobJanuary 9, 2026Newsom proposed shifting oversight of the Department of Education from the superintendent to the State Board of Education. The move would concentrate more power over K-12 schools with the governor, who appoints the school board.
State GovernmentNewsom calls California a “beacon” amid Trump era chaos in his final State of the StateJanuary 8, 2026 | Gerardo Zavala | Laura Fitzgerald | Greg Micek | Chris NicholsNewsom’s final State of the State address zeroed in on California’s resilience, its budget crunch and high costs while casting the state as a counter to President Trump.
State GovernmentMany L.A. fire survivors face insurance delays and can’t return home a year laterJanuary 8, 2026Despite billions in dollars of claims paid out, fires exposed problems in California’s beleaguered insurance market. All policyholders are likely to see premiums rise.
State GovernmentWhat Congressman LaMalfa’s death means for House Republicans, rural CaliforniaJanuary 7, 2026 | Gerardo ZavalaThe sudden death of the seven-term Republican congressman requires a special election using current district lines, followed by a midterm race under new Prop 50 maps.
State GovernmentNewsom’s final year in office begins with an $18 billion deficit. How will he address it?January 7, 2026As Gov. Gavin Newsom prepares to release his spending plan this Friday, a projected $18 billion deficit awaits. Will he raise taxes or cut spending? Either could spell trouble for Newsom’s legacy.
State GovernmentRep. Doug LaMalfa of California dies, reducing GOP's narrow control of the House to 218-213January 6, 2026President Donald Trump is lamenting the death of Republican seven-term U.S. congressman Doug LaMalfa of California, who was a reliable vote on his agenda.
State GovernmentMonique Limón becomes first woman of color, mother to lead California State SenateJanuary 5, 2026 | Gerardo ZavalaAs Monique Limón becomes the first Latina to lead the California Senate, she’s also preparing to confront a looming $18 billion budget deficit.
State GovernmentGavin Newsom’s legacy: Can he deliver on unmet promises in his final year as governor?January 5, 2026Under 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?
