Commentary

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A Red Wave goodbye to victimhood politics. Welcome to Ameritocracy.

After Trump’s shift at McDonald’s, Democrats will likely march some French fries into court to testify that Trump salted them.

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California will likely feel the consequences of Donald Trump’s decisive victory

There's no reason to believe that Donald Trump will not continue using California as a punching bag during his second stint as president. But many may wonder what Kamala Harris's defeat now means for Gavin Newsom's ambitions.

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Amid threats and harassment, California election workers persist to protect our vote

In recent years, election officials have increasingly become the targets of threats and harassment. Still, these committed public servants persist to ensure that elections in California and nationwide are safe, secure and accurate.

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Kamala Harris is different. In a good way. That was clear away from the California limelight

CalMatters contributor Jim Newton reflects on his interactions with Kamala Harris over the years, and the qualities that helped her stand out during her time in political office in California.

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A century later, salmon again spawning in Klamath River after dams removed

The Klamath River used to be the West Coast’s third most productive salmon fishery, until four hydroelectric dams built in the early 20th Century blocked salmon spawning.

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Crime debate misses key point: Police have more resources, but are solving fewer crimes

California needs to analyze these law enforcement failures, not rush to blame justice reforms for the highly visible crime problems that remain.

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How did Los Angeles voters get stuck with two distressing choices for district attorney?

Not long ago, the important work of prosecuting crime in Los Angeles County was managed by moderate, sober leaders. How, then, is it that voters face a choice between two dramatically less capable candidates than those who preceded them?

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Newsom provides welfare to the wealthy, skimps on anti-homelessness programs

This week Gov. Gavin Newsom promised $750 million to a few already wealthy entertainment producers and $827 million to cities and counties helping homeless people gain shelter.

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Why Newsom wants California taxpayers to spend millions more subsidizing Hollywood

Gov. Gavin Newsom wants the next state budget to more than double a tax credit for the entertainment industry, despite its overstated value to California's economy.

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The high cost of ignoring the bigger picture: Why Measure A isn’t enough

It's impossible to predict whether Measure A will pass this November, but one thing is clear: if it fails, our local elected officials have no one to blame but themselves.