Politics
Union leader behind billionaire tax measure alleges ‘smear’ campaign against him
Dave Regan claims he is the victim of a “smear” campaign orchestrated in part by wealthy Californians who are opposed to the billionaire tax measure he championed.
‘It’s going to be fine’: Trump rebuffs rising alarm over AI dangers, sparking outcry
Alarm mounted throughout the summer as researchers at leading AI labs found the pace of development far outstripping their expectations.
Architect of billionaire tax tried to ‘extort’ support for the measure and targeted women, union reports find
SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West President Dave Regan denied the allegations. He said he did not attempt to extort union officials, or assault or threaten female labor leaders.
Will ‘Coxon Day’ save us from AI destruction?
Jacob Coxon, an AI researcher, issued a public warning that went viral about the dangers of artificial intelligence and quit his job in protest. Will it make a difference?
Questions swirl over Trump’s pledge to give $5,000 payouts if GOP wins
The promise would likely cost more than $1 trillion and require congressional approval, and would further exacerbate the country’s nearly $1.8-trillion annual budget deficit and concerns about inflation.
Your patron saints for the 2026 election
This campaign season contains all sorts of scenarios screaming for holy intervention. We should pray extra hard to these saints for the next two months.
Becerra backers with business in Sacramento spend tens of millions boosting his gubernatorial bid
Companies and special interest groups with some of the diciest issues expected to land on California’s next governor’s desk are among the top financial backers of Democrat Xavier Becerra, the gubernatorial front runner.
Trump references dropped from GOP Rep. Young Kim’s reelection website
Orange County Rep. Young Kim has removed several references to President Trump from her campaign website as she tries to broaden her appeal to voters in a race against fellow Republican Rep. Ken Calvert.
California, other states warn Supreme Court of ‘chaos’ if it lets USPS mail ballot rules stand
A federal judge has already halted the plan nationwide, but the Trump administration has asked the Supreme Court to revive it, arguing the federal government would be seriously harmed by voter fraud if it does not.
Hilton proposes eliminating DMV, slashing vehicle registration fee if elected governor
Republican candidate Steve Hilton is vowing to abolish California’s DMV and cap annual vehicle registration at $73, reviving memories of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s fee reduction.