Dan Walters

State Senate leader Toni Atkins kicked off her gubernatorial campaign with an event in San Diego on Jan. 19, 2024. Photo by Bryan Giardinelli, Breathe New Winds

Commentary

The clock is ticking for those hoping to be California’s next governor

The field of would-be governors remains unsettled. This week Toni Atkins, former president pro tem of the state Senate, joined those who've ended their campaigns.

By

Dan Walters

• October 1, 2025

This image captures a close-up moment of the rally. The speaker at the podium is gesturing emphatically with arms outstretched, underscoring the intensity of the speech. The podium sign reads “Election Rigging Response Act,” and the California state flag is prominently displayed behind, reinforcing the political context. Supporters in the background hold signs with slogans such as “Defend Democracy.” The photo conveys a sense of urgency, leadership, and collective mobilization around protecting election integrity.

Commentary

California’s most glaring issues have little to do with Trump

California has long struggled with homelessness, poverty, unemployment, high living costs, a housing shortage, and water and education issues.

By

Dan Walters

• September 30, 2025

A person in a dark blue suit and tie sits in a white chair with arms outstretched, palms facing upward, while speaking at an event. The blurred backdrop behind them displays the words “Clinton Global Initiative” in white text.

Commentary

Newsom’s climate warrior image is backsliding, environmental groups say

Gov. Gavin Newsom said he's the opposite of President Donald Trump when it comes to climate change. But a letter by 40 groups says Newsom is abandoning key environmental policies.

By

Dan Walters

• September 26, 2025

Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Gavin Newsom wave to the crowd during a campaign rally at the IBEW-NECA training center in San Leandro on Sept. 8, 2021. Newsom faces the recall election next week. Photo by Anne Wernikoff, CalMatters

Commentary

Longtime frenemies Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsom reach career crossroads

Harris and Newsom quickly climbed political ladders in California to ultimately pursue the presidency. At times they've supported or rivaled each other.

By

Dan Walters

• September 25, 2025

Commentary

California’s insurance commissioner targets Consumer Watchdog fees

The nonprofit Consumer Watchdog collects "intervenor fees" for participating in premium setting in the Department of Insurance. It says it saves consumers millions of dollars more than it collects.

By

Dan Walters

• September 24, 2025

Law enforcement officers, wearing riot gear and holding black and green weapons, look at each other while standing in front of a crown on a street during an immigration raid.

Commentary

Court rulings cast doubt on California mask ban for federal officers

A U.S. Supreme Court case from the late 1800's and a federal drug agent's fatal shot in 1972 will likely curtail enforcement of a proposed mask ban for federal officers.

By

Dan Walters

• September 23, 2025

California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks at a podium reading “Lights, Camera, Jobs,” with people standing behind him.

Commentary

Are California’s tax loopholes and rebates good business or questionable kickbacks?

When Gov. Gavin Newsom approved $750 million in tax credits for Hollywood, he added to $100 billion in annual tax breaks or kickbacks California companies already enjoy.

By

Dan Walters

• September 19, 2025

Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks at an event in anticipation of signing a bill on his proposed profit penalty plan in Sacramento on March 28, 2023. Photo by Miguel Gutierrez Jr. , CalMatters

Commentary

How Gavin Newsom channeled Jerry Brown 1.0 with his flip-flop on oil and gas

A year ago, Newsom was denouncing gasoline refiners for gouging consumers and pocketing huge profits. During the just-concluded legislative session, however, he and legislators acted to increase oil production in California. What happened?

By

Dan Walters

• September 18, 2025

A Bay Are Rapid Transit train waits in station on July 3, 2022. Photo by Michael Ho Wai Lee, Sipa USA via Reuters

Commentary

California Legislature leaves Bay Area transit bailout in limbo

The state budget approved in June contained authorization for a $750 million loan. But legislators and Gov. Gavin Newsom couldn't complete a deal on terms by end of session last week.

By

Dan Walters

• September 17, 2025

Sunlight illuminates a portion of a street as a person, holding multiple bags, walks with two pitbull dogs standing behind them. A brick wall filled with graffiti and a brown truck can be seen nearby.

Commentary

California’s sky-high living costs afford it the nation’s highest poverty label — again

California ties Louisiana for the highest share of poor people. Lawmakers say they just passed bills that will lower housing, electricity and gasoline costs.

By

Dan Walters

• September 16, 2025