November 21, 2023

Protesters calling for a ceasefire of Israeli bombing in Gaza outside of the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center during the California Democratic Convention in Sacramento on Nov. 18, 2023. The group broke past security and interrupted the general session events. Photo by Miguel Gutierrez Jr., CalMatters

Politics

For California leaders, calls for ceasefire in Gaza war grow more difficult to ignore

As more Palestinian civilians are killed in the war, officials are facing tough questions about how well they’re representing California’s Palestinian community. The state now says it hopes to send aid to Gaza this week, and Gov. Newsom plans to meet soon with Arab and Muslim leaders.

By Sameea Kamal • November 21, 2023

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass at the Interstate 10 freeway repair site in Los Angeles. Mayor Bass, along with Vice President Kamala Harris, Gov. Gavin Newsom and local LA officials announced that the burn affected I-10 section of the freeway would be opened by late Sunday evening on Nov. 19, 2023. Photo by Ted Soqui/SIPA USA via Reuters

Commentary

Karen Bass shows her political strengths with the rapid reopening of Los Angeles freeway

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’ handling of the Interstate 10 fire and shutdown helped telegraph some of her strengths. As authorities search for a potential arson suspect, the speculation about nearby encampments served as a reminder of the bigger task the mayor faces.

By Jim Newton • November 21, 2023