21Nov

November 21, 2016

Political Stories –Top stories Where California and Trump could clash over the next four (or more) years — The state’s overwhelmingly Democratic politicians are already publicly rebuking Trump, setting California up to become the center of dissent and legal challenges to his agenda over the next four (or more) years. Here are six key areas that could produce […]

20Nov

November 20, 2016

Political Stories – Top stories Dan Walters: Could California succeed if it became a nation? — The political, legal and financial impediments are immense. Would, for instance, a hostile U.S. government be willing to sign over all of its vast property holdings, from trackless deserts to dams and jewels such as Yosemite, without charging us countless billions […]

19Nov

November 19, 2016

Political Stories – Top stories Trump promised California farmers more water. Can he deliver? — Battles over California’s water supply have been waged for decades. Legal experts say Trump’s vow to redraw the state’s water map won’t be fulfilled quickly or easily, even with Republicans controlling both the White House and Congress. Any efforts to direct more […]

18Nov

November 18, 2016

Political Stories – Top stories Dan Walters: Pelosi, McCarthy personify divide of cities and nation – It would be difficult to name two California cities more culturally, economically and, of course, politically disparate than San Francisco and Bakersfield – just 300 miles apart but in different existential orbits. As it happens, the majority and minority floor leaders […]

17Nov

November 17, 2016

Political Stories Top stories California analyst projects $2.8 billion budget surplus — California’s nonpartisan legislative analyst said Wednesday he’s forecasting a $2.8 billion budget surplus next year and says California should be able to weather a mild recession without major budget cuts or tax increases over the next four years. AP article; Sacramento Bee article Cal State will […]

16Nov

November 16, 2016

Political Stories Top stories Nunes dispels CIA director rumor — Devin Nunes (R-Tulare) is happy with his current post and would like to remain there, said Jack Langer, the congressman’s director of communications. Named to president-elect’s Donald Trump transition team late last week, Nunes wants to continue his stint in Congress. Visalia Times-Delta article Election over, Westlands Water District may […]

15Nov

November 15, 2016

Political Stories – Top stories CD 21: Big Valadao win could discourage future challenges — Will the third win be a charm for Congressman David Valadao? Valadao, R-Hanford, is on pace to capture his most impressive victory in California’s 21st Congressional District race. And that could make Democrats leery about taking another tilt his seat, at least […]

14Nov

November 14, 2016

Political Stories Top stories  Dan Walters: California’s 58 counties need governance reform – There are some steps that could improve all county governments, such as simplifying relations with the state. But Los Angeles and other big counties need a deeper overhaul – larger boards for broader representation and elected executives for accountability. Walters column in Sacramento Bee Marijuana […]

13Nov

November 13, 2016

Political Stories Top stories In wake of Trump presidency, Fresno’s undocumented anxiously brace for the future — Aracely watched the presidential election unfold on her college campus in Fresno through tears. The 19-year-old, who is a recipient of a federal program that protects undocumented young people from being deported, knows her future is uncertain in the hands of President-elect […]