Politics

Lawsuit Challenges Eric Swalwell’s Eligibility to Run for California Governor

A lawsuit challenges Rep. Eric Swalwell’s eligibility for California’s 2026 gubernatorial race, claiming he doesn’t meet the state’s five-year residency requirement. Filed by Joel Gilbert, it alleges Swalwell primarily resides in Washington, D.C. and questions his Candidate Intention Statement. The case raises broader concerns about candidate residency enforcement in California.

Arizona’s 2026 Governor’s Race Tightens as Polls Show a True Toss-Up

The 2026 Arizona gubernatorial election is highly competitive, with polls showing a tight race between incumbent Democrat Katie Hobbs and various Republican contenders. Early polling indicates a divided electorate, with key voter issues shifting towards the economy, housing, and education. Both parties are gearing up for highly strategic campaigns amid significant undecided voter numbers.

Idaho Lawmakers Move to Modernize Child Custody Laws After Years of Family Court Complaints

Idaho lawmakers are initiating significant reforms to the state’s outdated child custody and family court laws, responding to long-standing concerns about inefficiencies and negative impacts on children. A bipartisan task force is drafting legislation aimed at modernizing statutes, improving law enforcement involvement, and ensuring that children’s voices are heard in custody matters.

Oregon Lawmaker Revives Foster Youth Rights Bill After Gov. Kotek’s Veto

An Oregon lawmaker reintroduces legislation aiming to expand rights for foster children, previously vetoed by Governor Kotek due to cost and legal concerns. The bill seeks to enhance care standards, but critics argue existing system failures must be addressed first. The renewed push reflects ongoing public pressure for meaningful reform in Oregon’s foster care system.

California Legislature Begins 2026 With New Bills Rolling In

The California State Legislature reconvened on January 5, 2026, beginning the second year of its 2025-2026 session. Lawmakers are introducing a mix of new bills amid a projected $18-20 billion budget deficit and election year pressures. Major themes include budget management, housing affordability, and climate policy.

Who Is Running for Governor of California in 2026?

California’s 2026 gubernatorial election, taking place on November 3, features a crowded candidate field, primarily from the Democratic party, amidst a nonpartisan top-two primary on June 2. Voter feelings are unsettled, with many undecided. Key issues include crime, housing affordability, and economic recovery, creating unpredictability in the race.

California’s 2025 Wildfires Exposed a Crisis of Governance, Not Just Climate

The January 2025 wildfire disaster in Southern California revealed systemic failures in preparedness and response, leading to significant loss of life and property. Recovery remains stalled, particularly for marginalized communities facing bureaucratic hurdles. Criticism of Governor Newsom’s leadership has intensified as California struggles with rebuilding and insurance challenges, highlighting urgent needs for policy reform.

Swalwell’s Anti-ICE Rhetoric Tests the Line Between Oversight and Political Recklessness

Eric Swalwell’s gubernatorial campaign in California emphasizes stringent accountability measures for ICE agents, including unmasking during operations. Critics argue his rhetoric risks delegitimizing federal authority and inciting violence against officers. As Californians face pressing issues, they must consider whether this confrontational stance enhances safety or merely escalates political conflict.

California DMV Fixes Old Real ID Glitch — Here’s What It Really Means

California’s DMV revealed that approximately 325,000 Real ID holders must update their cards due to an outdated software error from 2006. This issue affects non-U.S. citizens’ ID expiration dates, not their eligibility. The DMV will expedite replacements at no charge, emphasizing that the state remains compliant with federal Real ID requirements.

San Francisco’s Reparations Fund: An Empty Account, a Loaded Debate, and a City Near a $1 Billion Deficit

San Francisco’s Mayor Daniel Lurie approved an ordinance establishing a Reparations Fund amid a budget deficit. This fund, intended for private donations, does not authorize reparations payments. The discussion is influenced by the controversial $5 million proposal from the 2023 reparations report, raising legal and fiscal concerns. Symbolically, it keeps the reparations idea alive.

Washington Democrats Move to Shield Child Care Providers From Public Scrutiny

A proposed bill in Washington, Senate Bill 5926, aims to expand privacy exemptions under the Public Records Act for all licensed child care providers. Critics argue it could reduce transparency and accountability, especially during heightened scrutiny of child care subsidies. The debate highlights tensions between privacy protection and taxpayer oversight.

Plants, Power, and Accountability: What the Palisades Fire Really Exposed

The catastrophic Palisades Fire was not just the result of wind, drought, or climate change. Newly surfaced documents and litigation records raise troubling questions about California’s wildfire policies, empty reservoirs, and environmental rules that may have delayed aggressive suppression—turning a small, contained blaze into one of the most destructive urban fires in state history.

Inglewood’s School Closures Expose a Hard Truth About Declining Enrollment and Fiscal Reality

The Inglewood Unified School District faces significant challenges, including declining enrollment from 18,000 to around 6,000 students, leading to numerous school closures. While some view this as gentrification, others argue it’s a necessary response to fiscal realities. The wider California education system is experiencing similar trends, necessitating accountability in resource allocation.