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?
State GovernmentU.S. military action in Venezuela sparks political backlash, protests in CaliforniaJanuary 3, 2026 | Gerardo Zavala | Greg MicekDemocratic lawmakers say U.S. military strikes in Venezuela and the reported capture of its president lacked congressional authorization and relied on questionable justifications.
State GovernmentWhy a new California law will require tortilla makers to add an extra ingredientDecember 30, 2025Folic acid is so important to infant health that it’s required to be added to cereal and bread. A new California law ensures it’ll be in tortillas.
State GovernmentNew California laws could reshape housing, AI regulation starting Jan. 1December 23, 2025 | Chris Nichols | Laura Fitzgerald | Riley Palmer | Tony Rodriguez | Keyshawn Davis | Chris FeltsIf you work in law enforcement or the health care field, new state laws will regulate what you can and can’t do with AI on the job.
EducationPay hikes for Cal State presidents shed light on financial divideDecember 22, 2025 | Greg MicekCSU presidents received raises this fall as faculty and lawmakers questioned pay equity, campus priorities and how executive compensation is set.
State GovernmentCalifornia gig drivers gear up for union rights in 2026December 22, 2025 | Laura FitzgeraldRideshare drivers can formally unionize for more labor protections under a new law going into effect Jan 1. Listen /Update RequiredTo play audio, update browser or Flash plugin.
