Justice
Newsom moves to close another state prison. That makes 5 since he took office
California’s falling incarcerated population has allowed Gov. Gavin Newsom to close four state prisons. Now he’s calling for a fifth.
May 14, 2025
Health
Medi-Cal coverage of weight loss drugs on chopping block under governor’s proposal
Weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy would no longer be covered by California's health insurance for low-income people under the governor’s proposal.
Housing
Newsom picks more housing over CEQA in backing two bills meant to speed construction
The California environmental law known as CEQA can be used to block construction in developed areas. Gov. Gavin Newsom is supporting changes to encourage more housing.
Commentary
Newsom blames California’s worsening state budget outlook on Trump’s tariffs
Gavin Newsom pinned California's gloomy financial picture on a "Trump slump," blaming the president's tariffs during the rollout of a revised state budget proposal.
California Divide
Geologically rich but economically poor, Salton Sea communities want a say in their lithium future
The Salton Sea will soon become a major hub for California's renewable energy economy, prompting the legislature to take steps to ensure future investments benefit local communities that have long been left behind.
CalMatters en Español
Newsom propone congelar la inscripción a Medi-Cal para inmigrantes indocumentados
Para ahorrar más de $5 mil millones, el gobernador de California quiere parar las nuevas inscripciones para adultos que no tienen estatus legal y cobrar primas. La Legislatura se ha resistido a dichos cambios.
Health
Newsom proposes to freeze Medi-Cal enrollment for undocumented immigrants
To save more than $5 billion, the California governor wants to shut down new enrollment for adults who lack legal status and charge premiums. The Legislature has resisted such changes.
K-12 Education
Can middle schoolers handle college? This San Jose school is finding out
The San Jose Evergreen Community College District offers a course at a local middle school, and plans to offer more in the future. The college faculty union worries that the students are too young.
Commentary
Newsom reveals his weaknesses when he needs political hardball to get his way
Gov. Gavin Newsom says Donald Trump is a "bully," but he's no stranger to using bullying tactics himself, especially to force local governments to obey his commands.