Artificial Intelligence

An aerial view of several large data center buildings and a construction site, surrounded by neighborhoods and dry, rolling hills.

Technology

Newsom clamps down on California data centers as voters turn against the industry

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed seven data center bills into law on Monday, signaling a tide change toward regulation of the industry.

By Katherine Ortiz • September 21, 2026

A split-image composite shows two politicians speaking at separate events. On the left, a person in a dark suit and glasses gestures with both hands while speaking onstage in front of a blurred conference backdrop. On the right, a bald person with a gray beard points forward while speaking animatedly, also in front of a blurred event backdrop.

Politics

Neither Becerra nor Hilton will commit to AI safety guidelines Newsom laid out Friday

Both Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton agree AI safety is important. What they will do to ensure it is less clear.

By Jeanne Kuang • September 18, 2026

Gov. Gavin Newsom holds up a document while speaking at a podium with a “Protecting Kids” sign as several people stand behind him.

Politics

Newsom orders California agencies to develop new AI safety plans after rejecting tougher law

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday ordered state agencies to develop safety regulations for artificial intelligence after vetoing tougher rules two years ago.

By Jeanne Kuang • September 18, 2026

Economy

CalPERS leaders air AI fears after Anthropic researcher’s resignation: ‘This is humanity’

The resignation of Anthropic researcher over his concerns about artificial intelligence companies "gambling with our lives" led to a discussion about the technology's risk at California's largest pension fund.

By Adam Ashton • September 14, 2026

A woman holding a framed photograph of her son stands between two people who place their hands on her shoulders, with the Golden Gate Bridge visible in the background.

Mental Health

Newsom signed 13 new laws to protect kids from technology. Will they work?

Even a decade ago, the horror stories behind some of the 13 bills Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law Thursday seemed the stuff of fiction. No more.

By Jocelyn Wiener • September 11, 2026

A circular office building stands beyond rows of suburban houses.

Commentary

Democrats have lost Silicon Valley. Here’s what it will take to win it back

If Democrats want to become the party of the future again, they need to stop treating the people building the future like political enemies.

By Dave Vorland • September 8, 2026

An aerial view of an office complex surrounded by trees and homes. In the background are hills under a partly cloudy sky.

Commentary

How California can do data centers differently and win back community trust

Californians might be more accepting of data centers if Big Tech planned transparently, shared benefits with host communities and used more clean energy.

By Allison Agsten • September 4, 2026