Kate Wolffe

What to know about the proposition Topline: Following the failed 2021 recall of Gov.

Following the failed 2021 recall of Gov. Gavin Newsom, Democrats had the political will and momentum to call for changes to the recall process. What emerged was Proposition 5 on the November ballot, a measure to change the recall process.

Noozhawk republishes news articles from CalMatters on state and local policy issues that affect Santa Barbara County readers. Sacramento State political

With less than three weeks until Election Day, outside groups are pouring millions of dollars into two types of state legislative races: purple

Political action committees backed by politically powerful groups such as unions and business have spent over $100 million on California legislative races so far this election cycle, eclipsing 2024 spending. Groups can spend unlimited amounts on “independent expenditures” to boost or oppose a candidate, providing they don't coordinate with the campaign.

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The largest union in California state government held a one-day strike, drawing thousands of workers off the job. It's pressing Gov. Gavin Newsom for raises and more flexibility to work from home.

The largest union in California state government held a one-day strike, drawing thousands of workers off the job. It's pressing Gov. Gavin Newsom for raises and more flexibility to work from home.

By Lynn La and Kate Wolffe , CalMatters State workers represented by SEIU Local 1000 strike at the state Capitol in Sacramento on Oct. 21, 2026.

Foto: Fred Greaves, CalMatters. Vestidos de morado y sosteniendo carteles con mensajes como "¡Contratos justos ya!" y "Estamos aquí para