Donald Trump

A visitor center sits at the base of steep granite cliffs, surrounded by tall trees. People walk up and down the steps, gather near the entrance, and rest on benches outside. A sign reading “Welcome Center” is mounted on the building, while an American flag stands nearby. The dramatic rock face rises behind the scene under a clear blue sky.

Commentary

We can’t ‘restore’ American history by flagging Native American books

Pres. Donald Trump is pressuring Redwood National and State Parks to tag tribally-centered books and material critical of American history.

By Kerri Malloy • April 17, 2026

Pro-abortion rights supporters marched in protest of a Supreme Court ruling that overturned Roe vs. Wade, in Sacramento on June 25, 2022. Photo by Miguel Gutierrez Jr., CalMatters

Politics

Trump wants data on California’s trans and abortion care. Can the state stop him?

In a legal battle between Trump and California over transgender and abortion care, will businesses be caught in a fight between hostile Justice Departments?

By Ryan Sabalow and Kristen Hwang • April 16, 2026

A person stands at a podium delivering a speech, gesturing with one hand while addressing an audience off-camera. The podium bears a sign reading “California Republican Party” with a website listed below. Behind them are multiple American flags and a California state flag, set against a dark curtain backdrop, creating a formal political event setting.

Politics

Trump wanted California Republicans to back Steve Hilton. They didn’t listen

The California Republican Party failed to endorse a candidate for governor, demonstrating that Trump’s influence only goes so far in California, even among his party’s most faithful.

By Maya C. Miller • April 13, 2026

A hallway at a political event is lined with tables, campaign signs, and merchandise. A person in a red blazer walks down the center while looking at a phone. Booths on both sides display posters and banners for various candidates, and a few people stand nearby talking or checking their phones under a row of modern ceiling lights.

Politics

California Republicans are caught between Trump loyalty and winning swing districts

California Republicans embrace Trump at their convention while candidates in competitive races keep him at arm's length to win over voters.

By Nadia Lathan • April 12, 2026

Politics

Trump’s divisive role in California politics is on display as GOP prepares election endorsements

California Republicans meet in San Diego for their annual convention where they’ll consider who to back in the governor’s race and work on plans to maintain and expand their legislative presence.

By Nadia Lathan and Maya C. Miller • April 10, 2026

Two people wearing white hard hats and sunglasses stand on a dry, open worksite with sparse vegetation. One person gestures and points into the distance while speaking, as the other looks on. A wooden fence, trees, and parked vehicles are visible in the background.

Environment

Trump energy chief attacks California oil and gas policies in Long Beach

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright visited a Long Beach oil site to pressure Gov. Newsom over state regulations he says are driving up energy costs for Californians.

By Alejandra Reyes-Velarde and Alejandro Lazo • April 9, 2026

A person with short dark hair and facial hair stands outdoors, looking off into the distance with a focused expression. They wear a plaid shirt, a green bandana around their neck, and a beaded necklace, with sunglasses resting on their head. The background shows a softly blurred street scene with vehicles and buildings.

Justice

Why prosecutors dropped charges against Fresno man who escorted students to ICE protest

California police paid close attention to adults who helped students during an ICE protest and brought charges against a Fresno man under an anti-truancy law.

By Nigel Duara • April 8, 2026

The tails of two airplanes that sit idle on the tarmac of an airport. Another plane can be seen taking off in the distance.

Environment

California wants to fund green jet fuel — by raiding your road repair budget

The proposal could be funded with transportation money typically reserved to fix local streets and roads.

By Alejandro Lazo • April 8, 2026

A person in a dark suit and light blue tie stands outdoors among a crowd, facing the camera with a serious expression. Behind them, an American flag waves near a construction crane, with trees and a bright blue sky in the background.

Commentary

Trump endorsing Hilton may help keep California governorship in Democratic hands

If ex-TV commentator Steve Hilton pulls far ahead of Sheriff Chad Bianco, it cuts the chances for a 1-2 GOP outcome — likely the only way California can get a Republican governor.

By Dan Walters • April 6, 2026

A close-up view of a person's right index finger pointing to writing on a small stack of redacted papers.

Commentary

California shouldn’t price the public out of public records. Democracy is at stake

A bill letting governments charge for public documents would let them base the cost on the time it takes to review and redact the information. It doesn't limit them.

By David Snyder • April 6, 2026