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A person in a red blazer speaks at a podium bearing the California State Assembly seal, raising one hand for emphasis, while three others stand behind them between the U.S. and California flags beneath a backdrop of the State Capitol building.

Investigation

California has a dangerous driver problem. A bipartisan group of lawmakers wants to fix that

The Assembly proposals are part of a broader push at the Capitol to reform California's weak driving laws.

By

Robert Lewis

and

Lauren Hepler

• February 2, 2026

A person, with a determined facial expression, looks to their right as they stand in front of a small tree with red flowers near an apartment building.

Commentary

San Diego journalist fighting prostate cancer warns: ‘This could happen to you, too’

Jerry McCormick’s path to recover from prostate cancer has been anything but linear. Documenting progress and setbacks helps him find purpose.

By Anissa Durham • January 30, 2026

A view of a person's shoes as they walk near a blue heart spray painted onto a concrete path.

Commentary

Black men in California face higher risks and higher bills for prostate cancer

Black Californians are five times more likely than others to die of prostate cancer. Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have cut screening costs.

By Anissa Durham • January 30, 2026

Collage of water, oranges, single family houses, placed in a non-distinct environment, with people walking along the streets, with a few police cars mixed in this collage, symbolizing people-centered policymaking and the balance of growth and community.

Sponsored

California has plenty. So why do millions still struggle for food, water, and basic safety?

Designing abundance into policy: creating opportunities to improve the supply, distribution, and allocation of food, water, and safety to meet basic needs.

By

Sponsor

• January 28, 2026

Burned remains of a hillside home reduced to rubble, with concrete walls, twisted metal, and ash in the foreground, while two scorched palm trees stand beside a railing overlooking a hazy valley in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.

Commentary

Candidate comment: Private insurers are holding California homeowners hostage

As the insurance industry threatens to leave the state unless they get less regulation and higher rates, politicians make consumers pay.

By Eduardo Vargas • January 16, 2026

A collage of what looks like housing and transportation themed issues with cars, houses and light rail with people walking on top and around them, symbolizing people-centered policymaking and the built environment.

Sponsored

What would it take to make housing, energy, and transportation affordable in California?

Designing “abundance” into Californians' lives means policies that challenge the status quo and re-examine how, what, why and where we build.

By

Sponsor

• January 14, 2026

A raging wildfire consumes a structure, with massive flames engulfing the scene. Bright orange and yellow fire contrasts against the dark sky, creating an intense and dramatic visual. A fence and some vegetation are silhouetted in the foreground, emphasizing the destructive power of the blaze.

Commentary

Candidate comment: California should make insurers cover homes if they insure cars or other items

Insurers sell auto insurance and other profitable products in California but choose to walk away from homeowners insurance when risk rises.

By Robert Howell • January 13, 2026

A charred, partially collapsed building with exposed columns and archways stands in ruins after a fire. Debris is scattered across the ground, and the roof is entirely missing. Only portions of the scorched walls and a staircase remain intact. A palm tree and other tall trees are visible in the background under a clear blue sky.

Commentary

Candidate Comment: To fix insurance in California, be smart, honest and reasonable

Insurance rates will reflect climate change and consumers’ interests. Insurers will see faster, more efficient reviews and scrutiny of excessive rates.

By Steven Bradford • January 12, 2026

Digital Democracy

My Legislator newsletter: Frequently Asked Questions, Answered

What the rankings and metrics in our My Legislator newsletter mean, along with answers to other common questions.

By

CalMatters Staff

• January 9, 2026

A helicopter drops a large stream of water over a raging wildfire on a hillside at night. The intense red glow from the flames lights up the smoke-filled sky, with silhouettes of tall trees visible on the right.

Commentary

Candidate comment: California’s insurance crisis is pervasive but fixable

Insurers in California pulled back coverage or left the state after years of over-regulation, price controls and poor wildfire prevention.

By Stacy Korsgaden • January 9, 2026

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