California

Dave Lesher in the CalMatters newsroom on April 3, 2024. Photo by Fred Greaves for CalMatters

Inside the Newsroom

CalMatters’ visionary co-founder, Dave Lesher, retires

Dave Lesher turned CalMatters into one of California’s most influential newsrooms — and launched new tools to make your government transparent

By

Ryan Sabalow

• February 2, 2026

Health

Covered California health insurance will cost more in 2026. Here’s what’s behind the double-digit increase

Millions of consumers will feel the pinch when rates already expected to rise will jump even further. Federal subsidies, set to expire at year’s end, are partly to blame.

By

Kristen Hwang

• August 15, 2025

A person stands at a podium in front of the U.S. Supreme Court building, speaking into multiple microphones with a sign reading “#FAIRMAPS” attached to the podium. Behind them is a large red and blue map graphic. Surrounding the speaker, people hold signs with messages such as “#FAIRMAPS,” “END GERRYMANDERING IN MARYLAND,” and “END GERRYMANDERING NOW,” indicating a rally advocating for fair redistricting practices.

Commentary

Why California should avoid revenge politics and stay out of the redistricting wars

President Trump has asked Texas to stack the congressional deck in Republicans' favor. Gov. Newsom should still keep California's redistricting process independent because it's what voters wanted.

By Jeanne Raya • August 13, 2025

A person wearing a purple jacket with a "Combat Wounded Veteran" patch and a "Purple Heart" cap sits watching a parade. In the background, a group of scouts in uniform march down a city street, carrying a large American flag. Trees with autumn-colored leaves and modern glass buildings line the street.

Digital Democracy

California is the only state that doesn’t exempt veterans’ retirement from taxes. Is this the year that changes?

California is the only state that doesn’t allow any tax exemptions on military retirement income. New bills aim to do that, but analysts say the financial incentive may be too small to get veterans to stay in California.

By

Sameea Kamal

• March 19, 2025

A wide view of green tables where people play texas hold em at a casino.

Politics

As California tribes sue their gambling rivals, cities could be the losers

After winning a costly legislative battle last year, California’s casino-owning tribes have sued their rivals in the gambling business. Cities could lose money if the tribes prevail in court.

By

Ryan Sabalow

• January 3, 2025

A group of individuals is gathered near large, arched windows in a dimly lit hallway. The silhouettes of a few people stand against the bright backdrop of the windows, which frame a view of a cityscape and a bridge in the distance. The setting appears to be inside a government building, with elegant woodwork and soft lighting from wall-mounted lamps. The scene evokes a sense of quiet anticipation or reflection, with people standing in conversation or gazing out the windows.

Politics

California Legislature’s unwritten rule: negotiate in secret with lobbyists, not in public

A tense exchange this summer between two California Democrats revealed an unwritten policy discouraging lawmakers from negotiating bills in legislative committees. It begs the question: Are lawmakers negotiating bills in secret and then rubber-stamping the decisions in public?

By

Ryan Sabalow

• September 18, 2024

California Divide

More secure EBT cards are coming to California. Here’s when they’ll go out

The state is working on electronic benefit cards with security chips, but is behind schedule. Families are expected to be able to use them in January.

By

Jeanne Kuang

• September 16, 2024

Elections

‘Mess’ and ‘destruction’: Fact-checking Trump’s attacks on California and Kamala Harris

Donald Trump didn’t attack California or Kamala Harris’s home-state record during their presidential debate. He didn’t miss his chance on a fundraising visit, blasting the state on crime, homelessness and more.

By

Yue Stella Yu

• September 13, 2024

Assemblymembers sitting at their desks look at their phones and other devices during a floor session.

Politics

Do outgoing legislators ‘shop’ for lobbying jobs in final weeks of the session?

Departing California lawmakers don’t have to disclose that they’re looking for a new job. Ethics experts say that’s a problem.

By

Ryan Sabalow

• August 15, 2024

Commentary

California’s image will be a weapon if Kamala Harris faces Donald Trump this year

If Vice President Kamala Harris becomes the Democratic nominee for president, former President Donald Trump will use images of homelessness, illegal immigration and other California problems against her in the swing states.

By

Dan Walters

• July 23, 2024