July 3, 2025

A group of protesters stands behind a red-and-white barricade holding signs that read “ICE out of LA!” and “Education not deportation.” Many participants wear face coverings, sunglasses, and masks. The protest appears to be taking place outdoors in a city setting with palm trees and buildings in the background.

Justice

Before LA immigration raids, California prisons tried to help ICE deport its top targets

The Trump administration faults California's sanctuary state law for allowing what it describes as violent criminals to remain in the country. However, that law does not protect people convicted of serious crimes.

By

Wendy Fry

and

Byrhonda Lyons

• July 3, 2025

A four-grid photo containing the images of four lawmakers. The lawmaker on the top left has blonde hair and wears a gray blazer. The lawmaker on the top right has their hair tied up in a bun and wears a purple pinstripe blazer. The lawmaker on the bottom left has curly brown hair tied up in a low ponytail and wears a blue blazer and white blouse. The lawmaker on the bottom left has short honey-colored hair and wears an orange blouse.

Health

‘Joy turned into shame’: California’s Latino Caucus agonized over slashing immigrant health care

One of the most powerful political blocs in California, the Latino Caucus had to balance reining in Medi-Cal's rising costs with helping undocumented immigrants. All but four overcame their misgivings and voted to freeze new enrollment and make other cuts to immigrant health insurance.

By

Kristen Hwang

• July 3, 2025

Nancy Wiles holds her eviction notice on Dec. 4, 2023. Photo by Manuel Orbegozo for CalMatters

Politics

California lawmakers side with landlords to kill renter eviction relief

California Democrats were split on a proposal that would have extended an eviction grace period for tenants who fall behind on their rent. It’s the latest setback for progressive lawmakers seeking renter protections.

By

Ryan Sabalow

• July 3, 2025

A person stands on the side of a road, silhouetted against a fiery orange sky filled with thick smoke. Overhead, power lines stretch across utility poles, and vegetation lines the foreground. The scene evokes a sense of isolation and foreboding amidst a wildfire.

Commentary

In battered Los Angeles, the Fourth of July feels very different this year

The twin assaults — January and June, nature and nativism, fire and fear — nip at L.A.’s soul. It’s hard to shake the feeling that half the nation is, along with Trump, relishing scenes of Los Angeles suffering.

By

Robert Greene

• July 3, 2025

A stylized digital collage shows two people talking on phones, facing each other across the image. On the left, a person with short hair, glasses, and a patterned shirt speaks with a concerned expression. On the right, a person with curly hair pulled back looks thoughtful while holding a phone to their ear. Scribbled white lines near each head symbolize confusion or emotional distress. The background features rough textures and warm-toned graphic shapes in orange and pink.

Mental Health

Mental health support centers are reeling from California budget cuts, with layoffs expected

Operators of mental health support lines are laying off staff and ceasing or curtailing services due to California budget cuts and a 2024 ballot measure.

By

Jocelyn Wiener

• July 3, 2025

A person wearing a dark suit and red tie stands in front of a background filled with American flags. The individual is pointing forward with a determined expression, emphasizing a stance of confidence and focus amidst the patriotic setting.

Commentary

Presidential election reveals big shift in California voting patterns. Will it last?

Kamala Harris' poorer than expected performance with key demographic groups and increases in young voters registering Republican are signs of political change in California.

By

Dan Walters

• July 3, 2025