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Newsom Could Commute California’s Death Sentences. Will He Pay a Political Price?
Hundreds of people remain on California’s death row. In his final weeks in office, Gov. Gavin Newsom is considering whether to commute their sentences to life without the possibility of parole.
A closer look: More Democrats mention gas prices in political ads
Political contributor and KQED politics reporter Guy Marzorati examined how Democrats are using gas prices to win back the House.
SF Billionaire Chris Larsen on AI: “This Is an Incredibly Dangerous Moment”
Larsen once called for a "middle path" on the AI arms race but now says we need to "shut down all the data centers."
Stanford Scientists Find New Way to Revive Bleached Coral
Bleached corals have a remarkable ability to recover, when put in contact with a healthy clone and beneficial algae, Bay Area researchers announced in a study published Monday.
‘Politics as Profit’ or ‘Pure Fiction’: Bribery Trial of Ex-Oakland Mayor Kicks Off
In the federal corruption trial of former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, prosecutors claimed Thao put her political power up for sale, while defense attorneys attempted to impeach the government’s star witness.
Veteran KQED politics reporter to retire after nearly three decades
Scott Shafer, one of the Bay Area's best-known political journalists and a fixture at KQED for nearly three decades plans to retire after a career covering California elections, debates and more.
Veteran KQED politics reporter Scott Shafer to retire
Scott Shafer, one of the Bay Area’s best-known political journalists and a fixture at KQED for nearly three decades plans to retire after a career covering California elections, debates and more.
Latinos Want More Than a Historic First From Xavier Becerra
California’s upcoming gubernatorial election includes a potentially monumental feat: Xavier Becerra could become California’s first Latino governor in over 150 years.
Tech Workers Have Long Resisted Unions. Will AI and Politics Change the Equation?
Silicon Valley’s white-collar workers have been largely detached from organized labor. Artificial intelligence and ICE are giving employees new reasons to unionize.
Valadao-Villegas Debate and the Fight for Latino Voters in the Central Valley
A Central Valley debate with control of Congress at stake, and a look at whether progressive or moderate Democrats make the stronger pitch to Latino voters.
Can You Love Someone Whose Politics Frighten You?
Mónica Guzmán grew up in a politically divided family. Now, the author and podcaster offers a roadmap for talking to someone you love when their politics are unnerving.
Congressman Adam Gray Defends One of California’s Last Swing Districts After Redistricting
A moderate Democratic Congressman who won his seat by a razor-thin margin has a theory of how his party can win in a swing district.
$7.5B California Science Agency Plan Free From Trump’s Influence Will Go to Voters
Voters will get to weigh in on the plan in early 2028.
Doctors, Insurers Sue Newsom Over Health Insurance Premium Increases
The California Medical Association and California Association of Health Plans say in a new lawsuit that a healthcare tax violates Proposition 35, passed by voters in 2024.
Two Democrats Competing to Replace Pelosi, Live Onstage
The two candidates vying to replace Rep. Nancy Pelosi in Congress faced off in a live onstage debate at KQED on Oct. 1, moderated by Political Breakdown co-hosts Scott Shafer and Marisa Lagos and the San Francisco Chronicle’s Joe Garofoli. City Supervisor Connie Chan and State Senator Scott Wiener presented their visions for the future
Key Moments from the Wiener-Chan Debate
The two Democrats campaigning to represent District 11 in Congress debated AI safety, housing affordability and foreign policy.
That Rare Mastodon Fossil Found in San Mateo Is Now at Stanford
The molar dates back to the Ice Age. Researchers found it submerged in a Bay Area creek at the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space Preserve.
S.F. House candidates spar over housing, AI in Chronicle-KQED debate
On most issues, the two Democrats vying to replace Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi articulated similar policy stances.
Watch Live: Connie Chan, Scott Wiener Debate for SF Congressional Seat
San Francisco Supervisor Connie Chan and state Sen. Scott Wiener meet live onstage Thursday night at KQED for a critical debate ahead of the November election.
Kelly McKenna: Managing My Health
Kelly McKenna shares about navigating through her health struggles. I was in first grade when my friend approached me, “John pushed Will down the stairs,” he said. I froze. “Stay strong,” I told myself. Will is my brother. He lives with a disability, and moments like this happened often. I didn’t have words like “fight-or-flight”
Most Humans Can See 10 Million Colors. Cal Scientists Found One More.
We talk to Austin Roorda and Ren Ng, the scientists behind the color science, and Galchen.
Crypto CEO Chris Larsen Donates $500,000 to Support Political Moderate in Supervisors Race
The donation supports moderate Democrat Theo Ellington’s bid to replace progressive supervisor Shamann Walton in November.
Richmond Police Officer Shot During Mental Health Crisis Call
The officer is in stable condition and expected to survive. It was the second shooting of police in Contra Costa County that evening.
‘The View’ reveals 1 former cohost returning to the table for season 30
‘The View’ revealed Sherri Shepherd will join Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, and more at the Hot Topics table when the show premieres for its landmark season 30.
Should California Backfill Science Funding After Trump Cuts? Voters Could Decide in 2028
Last year the White House suspended or cancelled more than 1,000 California science grants. This bond measure would restore some of that funding.
The WNBA Has a Politics Problem
The WNBA has become a battleground for left versus right fighting, sparking culture wars over race, gender and sexual orientation.
Scientists Are Building a 'Noah’s Ark' of California’s Tide Pools
It will help better track the effects of climate change on the ecosystem.
Caltrans I-580 Truck Ban Study Finds Modest Health Gains, Major Traffic Shifts
Trucks haven’t been allowed to drive on Interstate 580 since the 1950s. Caltrans is now exploring the impact of lifting the ban.
What's Behind Steve Hilton's Quick Ascension in California Politics?
The Republican gubernatorial candidate has a long history as a political consultant.
Central Coast Wineries Adjust Business Models to Deal With Downturn
Many are struggling with sales, so they're holding more special events.
Healthcare Company Focusing on Women's Health Faces Scrutiny
A healthcare company with half a dozen clinics in Southern California is facing pushback for its quality of services.
California Scientists Find Early Warning Sign of Irreversible Groundwater Damage
The U.S. Geological Survey’s California Water Center estimates 15% of the Central Valley’s groundwater storage capacity has been permanently lost because of subsidence.
‘Unacceptable’: San Francisco Officials Question Kaiser’s Approach to AI in Mental Health
In a hearing, therapists decried Kaiser’s proposed contract terms during labor negotiations, which they argued would undermine mental health services. The largest health insurer for city employees said it remains focused on providing timely, high-quality mental health services.
Sausalito City Manager, Former SF Port Director, Arrested During ‘Mental Health Crisis’
Elaine Forbes was the director of the Port of San Francisco for nearly a decade before starting the new role in Marin County three weeks ago.
Proposal Would Allow San Francisco Small Business Owners to Unionize
Supporters say the plan would help give small business owners a break as rent prices skyrocket in San Francisco.
Democrats Split on Israel and the Politics of Data Centers
House Democrats are divided on sending U.S. aid to Israel. Plus, the backlash over AI data centers fuels local and statewide moratoriums.
Sexual Assault Allegations Reshape Political Races from Maine to San Francisco
Sexual assault allegations have upended high-profile political campaigns across the country. This week, Democrat Graham Platner, a candidate for U.S. Senate in Maine, suspended his campaign following an accusation of rape. It comes months after former East Bay Congressman Eric Swalwell’s California gubernatorial bid collapsed under similar allegations. Now, a sexual assault allegation has emerged
White House Moves to Control Federal Science Grants as RFK Jr. Threatens Scientific Journals
A proposed tax bill could raise premiums on privately insured Californians, and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. takes aim at medical journals.
Harsh Medicine: Fixing Science’s Gender Gap
Women now enter medicine in numbers equal to men, yet they remain largely underrepresented. That’s harmful to science and patient care.
Harsh Medicine: Fixing Science’s Gender Gap
We talk to UCSF distinguished professor Jennifer Grandis about the issues still facing women in science and health care.
2026 World Cup Is Putting FIFA’s Rules on Political Neutrality to the Test
The World Cup is in full swing across North America, and the U.S. men’s team faces Turkey in its final group round appearance on Thursday. But behind the cheering fans and nail biting matches, FIFA's commitment to political neutrality is put to the test. Marisa sits down with Tariq Panja, global sports correspondent at The New York Times. They dig into the politics behind the games, from restrictions on Iran’s team and President Trump’s unusually close relationship with FIFA president Giann
San José Postpones Plan to Double Downtown Parking Rates After Business Owner Uproar
Advocates for downtown businesses said the increase would hit the service industry hardest.
Jonathan Weber’s 'City on the Edge' Chronicles Decades-Long Battles Over Tech, Politics and the Soul of San Francisco
Weber tells the story of a war waged for the heart of San Francisco that has had an impact far beyond the city’s famed Golden Gates.
Cigarettes Are Cool Again and Health Advocates are Worried
We explore the return of smoking's coolness, and how the glamorization of cigarettes complicates the public health conversation around nicotine.
Santa Clara Resident Infected With Measles Traveled Through SFO, Health Officials Say
The possible exposure comes as thousands of soccer fans descend on the county for the World Cup tournament.
Proposed Trump Rule Targets ‘Woke’ Federal Grants for Public Lands, Health, Science
Aimed at “responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars,” the White House wants political appointees to have final say on grant review.
What the Massive Medicaid Cuts Mean for Your Health Care
We’ll take stock of what the new Medi-Cal landscape means for everyone’s access to health care in California and the Bay Area.
California's Primary is June 2. Do You Know What's on Your Ballot?
We talk with KQED’s Politics Team to answer your questions and discuss what you need to know to fill out your ballot.
Scientists Worry El Niño Could Supercharge Marine Heat Wave Roiling Coastal California
A widespread marine heat wave and brewing El Niño could further threaten California kelp, sea birds and marine ecosystems.
Visualizing Teen Mental Health: Oakland Students Highlight Caregivers Through Photography
A recent workshop facilitated by several Bay Area organizations asked Oakland high schoolers to visualize the impact their caregivers have on their mental health.
Bar Owners, Health Advocates Clash Over Smoking Ban on Outdoor Patios in San Francisco
San Francisco Supervisors delayed their vote on a ban on smoking on outdoor patios until June after pushback from small businesses.
Could a ‘Plastic Detox’ Help With Health and Fertility?
We talk with the fertility researcher and one of the couples in the documentary 'The Plastic Detox' to hear what they think we should — and should not — take away from the experiment.
How Prediction Markets are Colliding With California and National Politics
Prediction markets have exploded in recent years, with platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi allowing people to put real money on everything from sports outcomes to election results to armed conflicts overseas. Marisa, Scott and Guy discuss how these markets are influencing state and national politics. Then, they’re joined by Kate Knibbs, senior writer at WIRED, to understand who’s governing these platforms and how they’ve managed to flourish even in states where gambling is illegal. Check out
These UC Berkeley Students Are Leading the Fight Against Phones
They’re deleting their social media accounts and reducing their screen time. And they want you to join them.
A Los Angeles Woman Was Lost. An Ambitious Mental Health Program Gave Her a Sense of Purpose
The novel experiment in community care, concentrated in Hollywood, was inspired by the mental health system in Trieste, Italy.
From Chavez to Swalwell, #MeToo Shapes Fallout in California Politics
In California, swift fallout from allegations against Eric Swalwell and Cesar Chavez reflects #MeToo’s impact while advocates say gaps in accountability remain.
San Francisco Directs $15 Million to Health Department Security After Fatal Stabbing
The 13-page report presented a list of recommendations for the hospital and health department in response to the stabbing at SF General.
Pleasanton Innovation Fair Brings Robots, Drones, Electric Buses and More This Weekend
The one-day free event at the Alameda County Fairgrounds is the largest celebration of science, technology, engineering, art and innovation in the area, according to organizers.
Suspect Was in Apparent Mental Health Crisis During Attack on Sam Altman’s House
The San Francisco Public Defender’s office said 20-year-old Daniel Moreno-Gama was in the midst of acute mental illness when he attacked the OpenAI CEO’s home and offices, and was “overcharged” by local and national authorities.
Orioles news: Early problems in need of solutions
It was supposed to be better than this and so far it isn’t.
SF Supervisor Jackie Fielder Steps Back for Mental Health
Jackie Fielder, one of the most progressive members on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, is taking a medical leave for a mental health condition.
Artemis II: What NASA’s Scientists Hope to Learn From Sending Humans to the Moon
The mission will test life support systems, study deep space radiation, and capture new views of the moon.
Why Do Animals Glow? The Science of Bioluminescence
From ocean depths to forests, some animals glow — and it’s key to their survival.
How Can Climate Entertainment Help Us Talk About Climate Change?
We talk about why storytelling in film, TV and advertising has such a powerful sway over us, and take stock of the landscape of climate change depictions on your screens.
In Space Epic ‘Project Hail Mary,’ Ryan Gosling Makes Science Fun
The space adventure film is the kind of spectacular cinematic adventure that we’ve been missing.
How Pope Leo's Catholic Church is Influencing U.S. Politics
Pope Leo is changing how the American Catholic Church operates, energizing progressive Catholics.
How Can Character Count in Sports When Winning is Everything?
Kids sports has become a pressure cooker of flared tempers and bad behavior. How does one develop sportsmanship when winning has become so important?
California’s Governor’s Race is Breaking an 80-Year Political Mold
Since World War II, the surest path to California governor ran through statewide office. But Rep. Eric Swalwell and former Rep. Katie Porter are leveraging national airtime and viral moments to outpace the traditional field.
Possible Measles Exposure in Burlingame Panda Express, Health Officials Warn
The case is believed to be the fourth measles case in the Bay Area this year.
How an Aging California Is Turning to Senior Centers for Romance, Community and Health
No two senior centers are alike. We visited three very different venues in L.A. to learn how they’re changing for California’s aging population.
San Francisco Teachers Win Fully Funded Health Care, Wage Increases After 4-Day Strike
San Francisco’s first teachers strike in nearly 50 years concluded early Friday with a tentative agreement addressing the union’s concerns over health care, salaries and other key issues.
San Francisco Small Businesses to Sue PG&E Over Losses From December Power Outages
Business owners and residents say the financial credits offered by the utility don’t reflect true financial damages.
Stanford Scientists Reveal Oldest Map of the Night Sky, Previously Lost to Time
SLAC researchers used X-ray beams and the particle accelerator to recover the work of an ancient astronomer, who made the earliest known attempt to log the stars.
From the Galápagos to the Deep Sea, Cal Academy Scientists Describe 72 New Species
Academy researchers identified 72 species new to science in 2025, including the newly recognized Galápagos lava heron, a shy deep-sea fish, and a rare sunflower relative found in a U.S. national park.
Neighborhood, Small Business Groups File Lawsuit Over San Francisco Rezoning Plan
Plaintiffs are looking to pause implementation of Mayor Daniel Lurie’s "Family Zoning Plan" while seeking stronger protections for renters, small businesses and infrastructure.
Traditional Knowledge Meets Science in Northern California Tribe's Environmental Planning
Here are the morning's top stories for Monday, December 29th, 2025: The Karuk Tribe in Northern California is crafting an environmental policy that unites traditional knowledge with more contemporary environmental sciences--pushing back against years of bias dismissing tribal knowledge of the Karuk's ancestral lands. A federal judge in the Bay Area has halted ICE from making arrests at immigration courthouses in the region. California's Minimum Wage is increasing next year. A new
Stories That Stuck With Us This Year, Handpicked by the KQED Science Team
Our science reporters recount stories they found especially memorable, thought-provoking or that changed how they thought about something.
Alameda Health System to Lay Off Hundreds in January After Massive Federal Cuts
The significant cuts to Medicaid caused by the Trump administration’s tax and spending bill are pushing Alameda Health System to lay off nearly 300 workers.
Fearing ICE, California’s Immigrant Seniors Retreat From Social and Health Services
Experts in the Bay Area and Los Angeles report that older patients and social service clients are staying home to avoid rampant immigration enforcement.
KQED Politics Team Looks Back at the Defining Political Stories of 2025 and Ahead to 2026
The politics team reviews the biggest political stories of 2025 and makes predictions for 2026.
Monarch Butterflies Now Wear Tiny Tags — for Scientists to Track Them in Real Time
Plus, where you can see the beauty of monarch butterflies for yourself in the Bay Area.