CalMatters
CalMatters is the leading nonprofit, nonpartisan newsroom committed to explaining California politics and policy.
calmatters.orgHOMELAND SECURITY AND SAFETY
Did Altadena’s unincorporated status play a role in safety lapses during the Eaton fire?
Unincorporated Altadena relied on county agencies during the 2025 fire. Most residents polled said they weren’t warned and never saw a firefighter.
CONSUMER ELECTRONICS AND GADGETS
Data brokers have detailed files on you. Here’s what’s in them — and how it impacts you
Data brokers collect thousands of details about your finances, health and habits. See what’s in your profile, who buys it and how companies use it.
INTERNET CULTURE AND SOCIAL MEDIA
California’s high cost of living places state near — but not at — the top in poverty rates
California no longer leads the nation in cost-adjusted poverty; it's No. 2. Rivals will likely weaponize that status anyway should Gov. Gavin Newsom run for president.
CALIFORNIALOUISIANASTANFORD UNIVERSITY
FLEET OPERATIONS AND ROUTING
California high-speed rail consultants flew first-class, visited bars and a nightclub on taxpayers’ money
California’s High-Speed Rail Authority paid nearly $600,000 in unallowable travel reimbursements to outside consultants while keeping a poor record to justify them, a state investigation found.
CALIFORNIA
ELDER CARE AND AGING
Newsom signs law to let these Californians get out of jury duty — for good
Californians over age 80 will be able to get a permanent exemption from jury duty under a new law Gov. Gavin Newsom signed.
TEXASCALIFORNIA
