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Collage of California landscape from orchards to single family homes to urban life, symbolizing the policy trade-offs for an abundant future

Sponsored

What tradeoffs are Californians willing to make for the future they want? New public opinion data reveals possible paths forward.

By

Sponsor

• November 5, 2025

Investigation

15 DUIs, still driving: California’s failure to take repeat drunk drivers off the road

As alcohol-related roadway deaths spike across the state, a CalMatters investigation finds California has some of the weakest DUI laws in the country.

By

Robert Lewis

and

Lauren Hepler

• October 30, 2025

A black and white photo of a stone memorial with the words "Victims of Drunk Drivers Memorial" on it next to the photos of various people.

Investigation

6 takeaways: California’s deadly failure on drunk driving

While DUI fatalities surge, a CalMatters investigation finds state leaders have shown little willingness to address the issue.

By

Robert Lewis

and

Lauren Hepler

• October 30, 2025

Collage of diverse hands hovering over a flat image of shapes of a cityscape, symbolizing people-centered policymaking and community engagement.

Sponsored

Policymaking for IMPACT

How can government and diverse communities work better, together? Here’s a step-by-step framework to help make it happen.

By

Sponsor

• October 22, 2025

Sponsored

Community Engagement

Nearly seven in ten registered CA voters want more engagement with state leaders. How can we move beyond hosting pro forma town halls to more creatively connect communities and government?

By

Sponsor

• October 8, 2025

A group of people hold signs that read “KILL THE CUTS SAVE LIVES” during a daytime protest. Some participants wear masks and sunglasses while standing closely together in a crowded outdoor setting.

Commentary

California needs to take a bolder stand for universities targeted by the White House

A federal lawsuit by the UC Regents would help fill gaps created by recent Supreme Court rulings. It would also provide legal and symbolic support to researchers who have been mostly fighting on their own.

By Blake Emerson • September 29, 2025

Sponsored

People-Centered Policymaking

Californians struggle to find affordable housing (71%), good jobs (47%) and low-cost healthy food (45%). As we boost supply, how can we ensure it reaches everyone?

By

Sponsor

• September 24, 2025

Elections

2025 California Voter Guide: Your Election Questions, Answered

Where do I vote? Am I registered to vote? Does everyone get a ballot in the mail? Answers to your election day questions ahead of November 4.

By

CalMatters Staff

• September 19, 2025

Two people stand while holding signs that reads "defend democracy" and "elections rigging response act" at a rally.

Commentary

As checks and balances fade, Prop. 50 gives Californians a chance to hold the line

The president's unconstitutional whims have gone largely unchecked, placing the burden on states and the people themselves. California must do everything within its power to counter, a former redistricting commissioner argues.

By Trena Turner • September 19, 2025

A person in a suit holds a large yellow sign that reads “NO on 50 DEFEND FAIR ELECTIONS,” with smaller text at the bottom noting it was paid for by the Yuba County Republican Party. The person stands among green-cushioned chairs, with others in red clothing gathered in the background.

Commentary

Why California voters should reject Prop. 50 and stay out of the redistricting wars

As California voters decide whether the state enters the redistricting wars or stands down, a former redistricting commissioner says a Democratic gerrymander is not the model of government citizens deserve.

By Jeanne Raya • September 19, 2025

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