Donald Trump

A voting booth with an American flag graphic and the word “Vote” stands on a table in a polling place, while a person in the background marks a ballot at another station.

Politics

Supreme Court ruling on voting won’t change California districts, but could hurt Democrats

The U.S. Supreme Court has narrowed the Voting Rights Act over the past decade. The law in California was primarily used to help Latinos gain political representation.

By Nigel Duara and Maya C. Miller • April 29, 2026

A hospital room with a bed, bedside table, and medical equipment is overlaid with a smartphone messaging interface showing a keyboard and text messages.

Health

Sham hospice schemes are bilking Medicare — and harming California seniors

State regulations meant to help keep scammers out of the hospice industry are still pending.

By Ana B. Ibarra • April 29, 2026

A group of heavily armed federal agents in full tactical gear emerge from the back of an armored vehicle labeled “LENCO ARMORED VEHICLES” on a sunlit urban street. Most wear camouflage fatigues, body armor, helmets, and goggles, with visible patches reading “POLICE” and insignias from U.S. Border Patrol and Homeland Security. Some agents carry rifles and one has zip cuffs and canisters clipped to their vest. A media photographer in a press vest films nearby. Palm trees and a clear blue sky suggest a Southern California location.

Justice

9th Circuit blocks California limits on anonymous immigration agents

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals sided with the Trump administration in striking down a California requirement that immigration agents show visible identification while on duty.

By Nigel Duara • April 22, 2026

Two people walk a pathway lined with trees and overlooking waterfront as a person nearby sets up a blue tent.

Homelessness

California blocks Trump administration from withholding homelessness funds

California for now has prevented the Trump administration from changing priorities in homelessness funding to favor temporary shelters rather than long-term housing.

By Marisa Kendall • April 21, 2026

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