Governor Gavin Newsom's final California budget proposal cuts social welfare spending and resists new taxes, drawing criticism from progressives. These moves indicate a rightward shift as he positions himself for a potential 2028 presidential run.
Governor Gavin Newsom has unveiled a $349 billion California budget proposal for 2026-27, but it faces skepticism from budget analysts, chronic deficits, and political challenges in his final year as governor.
Believe it or not, we’re only two weeks into the new year. It should be a time of rejuvenation and optimism, but, instead, it feels like we’re slogging
Santa Monica's MLK weekend features the first-ever drive-in movie night on the Pier showing 'Grease', the final day of Ice at Santa Monica, multiple MLK celebrations, art exhibitions, and unique food events throughout the Westside.
One year after Eaton and Palisades fires destroyed 10,000+ homes and claimed 31 lives in Los Angeles, science shows that community-based fire safety measures are most effective, yet receive only 2% of wildfire funding.
By Jerome Adams
Winter is upon us, and for many Americans, that means company parties, get-togethers with friends and of course, gathering with extended family.
These festivities are joyous. But
California State Auditor identified CalFresh as a 'high risk' program with an 11% error rate, potentially costing the state $2B. Critics from both parties have linked this to Minnesota's food fraud scandal, drawing questionable comparisons to Newsom's record.
As Gov. Gavin Newsom begins his final year in Sacramento with presidential ambitions, California faces a potential $35 billion budget deficit alongside persistent crises in housing, homelessness, and the economy that will challenge his would-be successors.
Jose Amezcua was one of hundreds of incarcerated firefighters who battled the deadly Los Angeles wildfires last year. The experience not only reduced his sentence but gave him purpose and prepared him for life after prison.
Santa Monica's four weekly farmers markets offer fresh local produce throughout January 2026. Highlights include peak-season citrus and avocados, new vendors like Bakeman Bars and Fat Uncle Farms, plus live entertainment at Pico and Main Street markets.
A longtime Santa Monica resident argues for closing SMO Airport by 2028 as mandated by a 2014 citywide referendum. The letter challenges claims about the airport's economic benefits and raises concerns about increasing jet fuel pollution.
California's economy has seen zero net job growth since the pandemic ended with 5.6% unemployment - highest in the nation. As Newsom positions for a presidential run, economic challenges including poverty and homelessness deserve more attention than political feuds.
