Commentary
How Newsom’s presidential ambitions complicate his last budget as California governor
As both governor and a likely presidential candidate, Gavin Newsom's final state budget faces a political trap of his own making.
Dan Walters
Commentary
Newsom’s budget shows big revenue gain, but we’ve been down that path before
The Newsom administration once overstated income by $165 billion over four years. Now Newsom has announced $42 billion in new revenues over three years.
Commentary
Newsom touts his successes, swipes at Trump in final State of the State speech
Newsom denounced Trump's cutbacks in federal child care funds and his refusal to send relief funds after the wildfires in Los Angeles County.
Commentary
Critics draw iffy link between Gavin Newsom’s record and Minnesota’s food fraud scandal
Republicans and at least one Democrat claim fraud and mismanagement during Newsom’s governorship are similar to Minnesota's debacle.
Commentary
California’s urgent issues loom over Newsom campaign and his would-be successors
Gov. Gavin Newsom's State of the State address may hint at how he'll balance his last year as governor with his presidential campaign image.
Commentary
New year may entertain political junkies, but California’s sluggish economy deserves the spotlight
Political intrigue grabs attention during election years, but California voters are also moved by high costs, joblessness and homelessness.
Commentary
California’s very odd election year starts with Republicans possibly leading the governor’s race
So many Democratic candidates are running — none with high poll numbers — that two Republicans could end up winning the primary.
Commentary
Newsom’s $18 billion budget gap has roots in pandemic aid ending
During the pandemic, federal money flooded into state and local coffers. Once that funding ended, government spending didn't adjust downward.
Commentary
University of California’s $28 million system for pension payouts produced chaos and complaints
Like other California state officials, UC's managers failed to adopt its new information tech program, resulting in a lawsuit against the vendors.
Commentary
Some Newsom detractors make up stuff, though there’s fodder for legitimate criticism
As California's governor prepares for an expected run for the presidency, a chorus of right-wing criticism is growing. Some of it isn't true.