Guest Commentary

Commentary

California’s young voters must participate if we want a livable climate future

Even if young voters are disillusioned with the American democratic process, they need to participate in our elections and support climate change protections and advocates, writes a Eureka teen.

By Bella Tarlton • September 11, 2024

Commentary

Many Asian Americans don’t vote. I will so our California communities can be heard

Advocacy groups fight for causes that matter to their communities, demonstrating what is possible when people come together, writes a teen first-time voter.

By Sunshine Thao • September 11, 2024

Commentary

Climate costs will only go up if California fails to act. Voters should back a $10 billion bond

In November, California voters will decide whether the state should authorize a $10 billion bond to help shield against worsening climate change. As roughly 1 million Californians live without clean water, a Salinas resident says Proposition 4 will bring relief to long-overlooked communities.

By Horacio Amezquita • September 10, 2024

Commentary

California has enough debt. It doesn’t need $10 billion more for a climate bond

California voters will soon decide whether the state should authorize a $10 billion bond to help respond to climate change. The state's highest-ranking Republican legislator argues California can't afford the additional debt, especially for a questionable list of projects and programs.

By Brian Jones • September 10, 2024

Commentary

Civil rights on the ballot: Why California voters should end forced prison labor

Proposition 6 would amend the state Constitution and abolish forced prison labor in California. The November ballot measure is a critical step toward justice and equality.

By Donald Hooker • September 4, 2024

Commentary

California’s water workforce is aging. Promoting the next generation of workers is essential

A career building and maintaining California's water infrastructure might be unglamorous but it's an essential and well-paying field as the state faces a looming shortage.

By Travis Hinkle • August 29, 2024

Commentary

California’s Medi-Cal ballot measure creates winners and losers. My daughter would lose

In November, California voters will weigh in on Proposition 35, an initiative to make a tax on health plans permanent and boost Medi-Cal. A Sacramento mother worries the proposal's spending plan will cast her family aside.

By Analicia Brokloff • August 28, 2024

Commentary

Medi-Cal needs reliable funding. This California ballot measure could make it happen

In November, California voters will weigh in on Proposition 35, which would make a tax on health plans permanent to boost Medi-Cal. A Los Angeles physician says the proposal will safeguard an underfunded system that serves millions of Californians.

By Edgar Chavez • August 28, 2024

Commentary

If California wants to build more housing, the ballot measure easing bond votes is crucial

California voters are deciding the fate of Proposition 5, which appears on the November ballot. A local mayor says a lower threshold for approving bond measures will make it easier for governments to build housing and improve infrastructure.

By Jesse Arreguin • August 16, 2024

Commentary

Want property taxes to go up? Why California should reject ballot measure easing bond votes

California voters are deciding the fate of Proposition 5, which appears on the November ballot. A taxpayer watchdog fears property taxes will keep increasing if it becomes easier for local governments to borrow money.

By Susan Shelley • August 16, 2024