Dan Walters

Commentary

Finally, progress on vital Sites Reservoir project

The likelihood of a $2.2 billion federal loan increases the possibility that the Sites Reservoir, a vital step in protecting California's water supply, will be constructed.

By

Dan Walters

• March 22, 2022

The California Assembly seen from above at the State Capitol on the last day to pass legislation for the year on Sept. 10, 2021. Photo by Anne Wernikoff, CalMatters

Commentary

A history lesson in the California Legislature

The culture of California's Capitol has changed much over the last few decades, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse.

By

Dan Walters

• March 21, 2022

A look at top contenders to be California's top cop — and chief enforcer of consumer protection, internet privacy and criminal investigations. Image via iStock

Commentary

Court money woes invite state intervention

California's courthouse construction program is insolvent and the state may take over management from the court system as it provides a bailout.

By

Dan Walters

• March 20, 2022

The University of California, Berkeley campus on July 25, 2018. Photo by Robbie Short for CalMatters

Commentary

UC legislation exposed Capitol’s bad habits

Gov. Gavin Newsom and state legislators moved quickly to overturn a court decision affecting enrollment at the University of California, but in doing so exposed several bad tendencies.

By

Dan Walters

• March 16, 2022

Commentary

California Democratic leaders take heat from two directions

California's dominant Democratic Party is taking heat from both progressives and more conservative unions.

By

Dan Walters

• March 15, 2022

A Valero gas station in Sacramento on Feb. 22, 2022. Photo by Miguel Gutierrez Jr., CalMatters

Commentary

How will Newsom’s gas price relief promise work?

Gov. Gavin Newsom is promising relief for California motorists from spiking gas prices, but how and how much are up in the air.

By

Dan Walters

• March 14, 2022

Commentary

One school shows how to improve low reading skills

California has a low literacy rate and its school children aren't excelling at reading. A Contra Costa County school's experience indicates how this deficiency could be improved.

By

Dan Walters

• March 13, 2022