Guest Commentary

Commentary

California bird flu outbreak warrants a broader look at the risky ways we produce food

As California confronts a bird flu outbreak, it is also time to take a hard look at the food production system that puts farm workers in close contact with sick animals, the standard American diet that demands it, and the health ramifications of both.

By Seema Policepatil • November 15, 2024

Commentary

A message to Gen Z Californians: Let’s make history not for what we faced but how we overcame it

As California confronts what another four years under President Donald Trump means, Gen Z should respond not with exasperation but courage to lead.

By Ayo Banjo • November 11, 2024

Commentary

How Proposition 36 convinced Californians to vote against their political views

Many are asking: Is the movement for criminal justice reform in California dead? The answer is no.

By Michelle Parris • November 8, 2024

Commentary

California air board member: Why I can’t back the proposed fuel standard changes

Proposed amendments to the Low Carbon Fuel Standard program fall short of the goals of transparency, equity and responsible policymaking, says a member of the California Air Resources Board.

By Dean Florez • November 7, 2024

Commentary

Amid threats and harassment, California election workers persist to protect our vote

In recent years, election officials have increasingly become the targets of threats and harassment. Still, these committed public servants persist to ensure that elections in California and nationwide are safe, secure and accurate.

By Tommy Gong and Tina Barton • November 6, 2024

Commentary

California’s representative democracy isn’t very representative of democracy

If California adopted proportional representation, its state legislature would have more political parties, resulting in more coalitions, compromise and responsive policies.

By Caledon Myers • November 5, 2024

Commentary

This key California climate program doesn’t need a rubber stamp — it needs overhaul

For years, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard program has given well-connected industries handouts for questionable climate benefits. An energy researcher says California needs to completely overhaul the program.

By Danny Cullenward • October 30, 2024

Commentary

To support California farms, state regulators need to stay the course on this climate program

California dairies have utilized the Low Carbon Fuel Standard climate program to reduce emissions and adopt cleaner fuels. A key upcoming vote to amend the program would hurt sustainable dairies, a farm manager argues.

By Sal Rodriguez • October 30, 2024

Commentary

California won’t solve the fentanyl crisis by punishing people

Funding given to California communities to address substance use disorder should be used for that — not for more policing, but for community centers, treatment centers, expanded access to reversal agents, and improved data to track progress.

By Pattie Vargas • October 23, 2024

Commentary

Californians must step up pressure to ensure a full cleanup of toxic Santa Susana lab

A plan by California regulators overseeing the long-delayed cleanup of the Santa Susana Field Laboratory fails to fully address soil contamination. Advocates hope residents take notice and ramp up public pressure while there's still time.

By Shawn Rostker • October 21, 2024