election 2024

A police car parked on the sidewalk of a store as pedestrians walk by or ride their scooters.

Commentary

Crime was once California’s biggest political issue. It’s made a major comeback

Crime was once an issue that drove California politics before Democratic lawmakers and voters enacted reforms. Decades later, it has returned as a potent political force with a ballot measure that seems to be winning.

By

Dan Walters

• August 20, 2024

Then-Democratic presidential candidate and U.S. Senator Kamala Harris, wearing a brown pant suit and standing on a small stage, speaks to a crowd of delegates.

Elections

California goes to the Democratic convention: 3 things to watch for

The California delegation, the largest at the Democratic National Convention, will also play a key role representing the home state of Kamala Harris. What to look for this week.

By

Sameea Kamal

• August 19, 2024

Flanked by state lawmakers, Gov. Gavin Newsom extends his hands out in celebration while seated at a desk at a Home Depot in San Jose.

Justice

Gavin Newsom signs new retail theft laws as voters weigh even tougher penalties

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed bills that aim to make it easier to prosecute retail theft. He's asking voters to reject a ballot measure that would impose even tougher penalties.

By

Nigel Duara

• August 16, 2024

Commentary

If California wants to build more housing, the ballot measure easing bond votes is crucial

California voters are deciding the fate of Proposition 5, which appears on the November ballot. A local mayor says a lower threshold for approving bond measures will make it easier for governments to build housing and improve infrastructure.

By Jesse Arreguin • August 16, 2024

Resident Gene Mabray fills out a ballot at a voting center at the Health and Wellness Center in Fresno on March 5, 2024. Photo by Larry Valenzuela, CalMatters/CatchLight Local

Commentary

Want property taxes to go up? Why California should reject ballot measure easing bond votes

California voters are deciding the fate of Proposition 5, which appears on the November ballot. A taxpayer watchdog fears property taxes will keep increasing if it becomes easier for local governments to borrow money.

By Susan Shelley • August 16, 2024

Commentary

Big Medicine and Newsom square off in battle over billions in health care tax dollars

Major payers in California's health care industry are pushing a ballot measure that would punch a hole in the state budget, blocking it from tapping a special health care tax.

By

Dan Walters

• August 16, 2024

A photo collage illustration in a blue and yellow tone of Kamala Harris holding a microphone in the foreground surrounded by different images and textures in the background including jail bars, a police car with sirens, justice scales, a court document and a "for rent" sign.

Elections

What 9 cases from Kamala Harris’ past say about her record as a California prosecutor

Was the former California attorney general and San Francisco DA too soft on crime? Or too tough? Her critics are quick to label her, but the reality isn't so simple.

By

Nigel Duara

• August 15, 2024

Gov. Gavin Newsom, surrounded by a crowd of reporters, speaks in the spin room after a presidential debate between President Joe Biden and Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump in Atlanta on June 27, 2024. Photo by John Bazemore, AP Photo

Elections

Gavin Newsom, once Biden’s biggest cheerleader, inches into the Kamala Harris campaign

California’s governor stood by President Biden to the bitter end, but is taking a less visible role in the Harris campaign so far. His speaking slot at the Democratic National Convention could signal how prominent he will be until Election Day.

By

Alexei Koseff

• August 14, 2024

Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz wave their hands surrounded by a crowd of supporters waving placards in support of their presidential bid.

Elections

Republicans target Kamala Harris’ ‘California-ness.’ Do swing-state voters care?

The vice president must defend her California roots and record against attacks by the Trump campaign. Voters and politicians in the swing states of Michigan and Arizona say that may not be the deciding factor.

By

Yue Stella Yu

• August 9, 2024

A young person stands in the doorway of a Little Hotel Tokyo, surrounded by red and white signs.

Elections

TikTok, Brat and Kamala Harris: Will newly fired-up young voters flip elections in California?

Young voters in California and across the country are excited about Vice President Kamala Harris. Democrats are trying to capitalize, counting on a surge at the polls to win key congressional races.

By

Matthew Reagan

and

Jenna Peterson

• August 8, 2024

Election 2024