Opinion Columnist
Represents the opinion of the author who is either a paid columnist or an unpaid guest columnist.
Fire shelters are a key defense for firefighters. But they don’t guarantee survival
Fire shelters are a key piece of equipment for wildland firefighters, but their use doesn't ensure survival.
Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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What is Proposition 41 before California voters in the 2026 election?
This ballot measure would audit new tax spending — and is a response to the billionaire tax also before voters this year.
Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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What is Proposition 42 before California voters in the 2026 election?
This ballot measure essentially competes with the billionaire tax also before voters this year, an attempt to undercut it.
Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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What is Proposition 43 before California voters in the 2026 election?
This ballot measure raises the threshold to pass local taxes on the ballot through the signature-gathering process.
Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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What is Proposition 44 before California voters in the 2026 election?
This ballot measure seeks to ensure community clinics are spending its revenue on patient care.
Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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What is Proposition 45 before California voters in the 2026 election?
Voters will decide if California should expedite the environmental impact review process for certain projects, like housing, transportation or clean energy infrastructure.
Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
News
Election 2026: All 14 propositions before California voters this year, explained
California voters will decide on 14 ballot measures, with several dealing with taxes, housing and elections.
Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
News
3 new and upcoming OC restaurants to put on your dining radar
A Mammoth distillery lands near the coast, a Santa Ana wine bar staple expands into Irvine and an affordable Venice-born burger joint plans its first OC spot.
Heat adds to strains on areas with data centers, raising the temperature on AI debates
Extreme heat like the weather sweeping the eastern U.S. drives up energy demands for data centers, adding to their strain on power grids and worsening air quality for surrounding areas.
Once a source of national pride, Cuba’s healthcare system declines as energy shortages deepen crisis
Cuba’s healthcare system, once praised for its quality, has sharply deteriorated. Analysts say the crisis is worsened by U.S. sanctions affecting the island’s energy sector.