Dan Walters

A close-up view of people's hands typing or scrolling on their laptops at an event.

Commentary

Silicon Valley flexes financial muscle in governor’s race and wealth tax battle

Compared to other sectors of California's economy, Silicon Valley hasn't doled out as much campaign money or hired as many lobbyists — until now.

By

Dan Walters

• February 20, 2026

A person sits on a chair near a table with joint hands resting near their chin.

Commentary

Jesse Jackson had a complicated relationship with fellow political personage Jerry Brown

When Rev. Jesse Jackson shared a stage with CA Gov. Jerry Brown, the two didn't always support each other's aspirations behind the scenes.

By

Dan Walters

• February 19, 2026

People stand at the steps of a school during a strike. The photo focuses on a person holding up their left hand in a fist while they hold a sign that reads "we can't wait" in Spanish with the other hand.

Commentary

California school systems face red ink despite boosts in education spending

While the state borrows $5.6 billion from education, districts throughout the state are struggling to balance their own budgets this year.

By

Dan Walters

• February 18, 2026

A lawmaker — with salt-and-pepper colored hair and wearing a black suit — looks straight forward as the silhouettes of two people cover the foreground of the frame. Other people and the American flag can be partially seen behind the lawmaker.

Commentary

Here’s how Newsom’s spending binge outstripped revenues, creating California’s chronic deficit

Obscure charts show how California's spending exploded under Newsom, far outstripping its stagnant population growth, inflation and a hefty increase in revenues.

By

Dan Walters

• February 13, 2026

Amazon SMF1 facility in Sacramento on Sept. 25, 2023.

Commentary

Could taxing multinational corporations erase California’s budget deficits? Not likely

As Gov. Gavin Newsom gears up for a presidential run, other California Democrats are weighing tax hikes to counter budget deficits and federal cutbacks.

By

Dan Walters

• February 12, 2026