August 19, 2026

A view of a prison across a large field of brush and dirt. The prison is photographed during the day, with a cloudy sky and a mountain range in the background.

CalMatters en Español

Las ciudades penitenciarias de California buscan desesperadamente nuevos empleos tras los cierres: ‘Nadie vendrá a salvarnos’

California está cerrando prisiones porque tiene menos personas encarceladas. Varias ciudades con prisiones clausuradas ahora tienen dificultades para atraer nuevos empleadores.

By Nigel Duara • August 19, 2026

The sun glows red through thick smoke above dark hills as a wildfire burns along the ridgeline.

CalMatters en Español

Los incendios forestales se propagan por las carreteras. La administración Trump quiere construir más en áreas protegidas

La administración Trump eliminar la protección de más de 4 millones de acres de bosques en California.

By Rachel Becker • August 19, 2026

An aerial view shows a neighborhood of large luxury homes with landscaped yards, swimming pools and solar panels, bordered by dry, open fields.

Commentary

Five California propositions ask the same question: Who should pay billions in taxes?

To get high-income Californians to pay more taxes, voters could approve Propositions 40 and 3. Props 41, 42 and 43 would make it harder to raise taxes.

By Dan Walters • August 19, 2026

Cattle graze in a grassy field with rows of wind turbines stretching across the landscape beneath an overcast sky.

Politics

Inside California Forever’s high-pressure push to fast-track a shipyard

California Forever pressured Solano County officials to support state legislation to fast-track its shipyard development, newly obtained public records show. Now, during the final weeks of the legislative session, the company is ramping up the pressure again.

By Yue Stella Yu and Kate Wolffe • August 19, 2026

Six people sit on a rounded marble dais inside a large room with various monitors displaying the meeting agenda. The U.S., California and San Diego County flags can be seen in the background.

Commentary

San Diego County’s pursuit of ethics reforms may also help consolidate Democratic control

A closer look at San Diego County's ballot measure to establish an ethics commission includes notable governance changes that could benefit slim political majorities on the Board of Supervisors.

By Robert Greene • August 19, 2026