Dan Walters

Using public funds for political campaigns is illegal but it's a widespread practice in California. New legislation would put teeth in the law by authorizing the Fair Political Practices Commission to enforce it.

California politicians often ignore constitutional rights as they make new laws, and federal judges have to remind them that Californians are also U.S. citizens who are protected by the Bill of Rights.

The California Teachers Association and other elements of the education establishment want to block charter schools and last year's elections will make it easier.

Three months into his governorship, Gavin Newsom enjoys only tepid support from the voters who elected him.

A collection of commentaries by Dan Walters over the past week.

A new statewide poll indicates that Californians are very worried about housing affordability — so much so that many are contemplating leaving the state.

Banning paper cash register receipts doesn't rise to the level of a legislative solution. It's pettifoggery.

A persistent "achievement gap" plagues California schools, but it's uncertain how it can be closed.

Big tax increases would be needed to pay for the expansionist goals of Capitol Democrats, but they would be a heavy political lift.

A collection of commentaries by Dan Walters over the past week.