Dan Walters

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.

In some congressional races and key ballot issues, California Democrats' left-leaning wing and its more centrist forces are clashing.

Budgets can gloss over key trends, such as how much government has grown in size and cost under Gov. Gavin Newsom. These sources reveal the data.

Inclusionary zoning requires developers of market rate housing to limit rents on units set aside for low-income tenants. But it can backfire.

Low turnout among young and non-white voters in California signals that Democrats should focus more on organizing to beat Republicans nationally, a strategist says.

An overhaul of California's carbon auction program is forcing lawmakers to reduce spending and decide whether high-speed rail deserves $1 billion a year.

Even with higher CalPERS earnings, upping pensions for public safety employees would cost the state and local governments $4.8 billion more.

Gov. Gavin Newsom is asking legislators to limit utilities' liability if their equipment ignites fires. Meanwhile SoCal Edison's tower is blamed for the deadly Eaton fire.

Attempts to paper over chronic deficits facing school districts in Sacramento and Los Angeles are similar to the efforts to close statewide budget holes.

Gavin Newsom has been trying to adjust his image as he positions himself for a potential presidential bid, but that can be tricky in an era of political volatility.