Dan Walters

A worker welds. As California attracts higher-educated workers, it is running out of blue-collar labor. Photo via iStock

Commentary

California’s Labor Day lament: A shortage of workers

A shortage of blue-collar workers — many driven out by the state's high housing costs — could wreak havoc on the state's economy.

By

Dan Walters

• September 6, 2021

Commentary

California housing plans need an overhaul

A new UCLA study concludes that California's system of local housing quotas has a "fundamental flaw" that needs correction.

By

Dan Walters

• September 5, 2021

Journeyman Hector Cortez Mesa practices in the welding shop for his recertification on June 10, 2021 at Iron Workers in Benicia. Photo by Anne Wernikoff, CalMatters

Commentary

‘Grand bargain’ of workers’ compensation under siege

Legislation and a pending lawsuit could make big changes in California's 108-year-old system of compensating workers for job-related illnesses and injuries.

By

Dan Walters

• September 1, 2021

Commentary

Will Gavin Newsom release Robert Kennedy’s killer?

As he battles to avoid being recalled, California Gov. Gavin Newsom faces another issue: whether Sirhan Sirhan, who assassinated Robert Kennedy, should be paroled.

By

Dan Walters

• August 31, 2021

Gov. Gavin Newsom presents the 2021 budget revise in Sacramento on May 14, 2021. Photo by Anne Wernikoff, CalMatters

Commentary

If recalled, what’s next for Gavin Newsom?

How would California Gov. Gavin Newsom continue to pursue a political career if he's recalled from office this year?

By

Dan Walters

• August 30, 2021

Commentary

Who will control sports betting in California?

Legal wagering on sports is coming to California but dueling ballot measures will determine who controls and profits from the potentially huge amounts of money involved.

By

Dan Walters

• August 29, 2021

Toyota Prius Hybrid vehicle offering rides for UBER and LYFT in San Francisco Bay Area

Commentary

California’s gig worker fight is back in the courts

California's epic battle over the status of gig workers has entered a new phase with a judge overturning Proposition 22, a 2020 ballot measure sponsored by Uber and other transportation and delivery companies.

By

Dan Walters

• August 25, 2021

A supporter of conservative radio talk show host Larry Elder, holds a sticker in Norwalk, on July 13, 2021. Elder announced his bid as a recall candidate for governor of California. Pablo Unzueta for CalMatters

Commentary

Larry Elder’s critics may be helping him succeed

The attacks on Larry Elder, the leading Republican candidate to succeed California Gov. Gavin Newsom should Newsom be recalled, are making an Elder governorship more likely.

By

Dan Walters

• August 24, 2021

California Capitol, home of the Assembly and Senate. Photo by Anne Wernikoff for CalMatters

Commentary

Audit report provides ammo for Newsom recall

A new report from California's state auditor singles out "high-risk" state programs and provides ammunition for the drive to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom.

By

Dan Walters

• August 23, 2021

Commentary

Will Legislature confront California housing crisis?

As the California Legislature resumes its 2021 session, two bills would confront cities that shun low- and moderate-income housing.

By

Dan Walters

• August 22, 2021