ONME News Review

As grocery prices continue to rise, the second term Trump Administration focuses  instead on private corporations ridding Diversity Equity and Inclusion initiatives in the workplace.  However,  several companies have pushed back, including Apple and Costco. And during these difficult times, US residents throughout the nation are deciding loyalty matters more than just cheaper prices with their local grocers.Just ask members of the community in Fresno California, where residents came out to support their local Costco. According to the AP, in January, more than 98 percent of the Costco shareholders rejected a proposal urging the wholesale club operator to evaluate any risks posed by its diversity, equity and inclusion  practices. In January, Trump signed an executive order aimed at terminating DEI programs within federal agencies. Conservatives have long condemned them, arguing they violate the U.S. Constitution by considering factors such as race, gender and sexual orientation. The plan includes leveraging the Justice Department and other agencies to probe private companies pursuing training and hiring practices that conservative critics consider discriminatory against people who do not belong to minority groups, such as white men.  Meanwhile, on the mid-morning of Saturday February 22, 2025, a Show up and Shop event occurred in support of the Costco located on Shaw Ave. near the 99 freeway in Fresno; people were pleased with Costco's decision to keep DEI initiative in place,  So they decided to use their local purchasing power.  Community leader and advisor, Landon Green, of The Freedom Group said this is just the start to this new year-long, Juneteenth community initiative.

Several counties in Southern California are in a state of emergency due to several, fast-moving fires that have been carried and enhanced by Santa Anna winds.Tuesday January 7 is when three major fires sparked in forestry areas in Southern California and with the help of hurricane force winds, collectively burned 22,000 acres in just 24 hours. The first fire, the Pacific Palisades, began at 10:30 a.m. on that day near 1190 North Piedra Morada (near Pacific Coast Highway near Malibu, Calif.), according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Winds reaching at least 40+ mph, quickly spread the original 10-acre fire to 200 acres in roughly 12 minutes. The Pacific Palisades fire has burned 17,230+ acres with 0 percent containment, where over 1,000 building have been destroyed by fire.Meanwhile, the Eaton fire started in Altadena on the late evening of January 7. It has taken the lives of five people and injured several others. Over 750 firefighters have been working tirelessly over the Eaton fire and yet 10,600 acres have burned and there is 0 percent containment as of January 9 at 9:00 AM PST. The Hurst fire also began that late night, burning 855 acres in just a few hours; it is 10 percent contained as of January 9 at 9:00 AM PST.Also on that Tuesday, due to the high winds over 50 mph, flight restrictions over the affected burn areas prevented fire fighters from dropping flame retardants over the area and the media from getting a full picture of the fires.

The Wednesday, October 16, 2024, Central Valley Community Election Forum was hosted by ONME News, in collaboration with community organizations, Black Women Organized for Political Action, Fresno, San Joaquin Valley Chapter, also known as BWOPA) Black American Political Association of California, Fresno Chapter,  also known as Bay PACK; The NAACP #1038, Fresno Chapter; and the African American Clergy Caucus.ONME News executive producer and publisher Julia Ann Dudley Najieb was the moderator.Part 1 of the October 16 Central Valley Election Community Forum features California State Assembly District 31 candidates Dr. Joaquin Arambula (incumbent) against opponent Solomon Verduzco followed by US House of Representative candidate and incumbent Congressman Jim Costa who talked about his Central Valley initiatives he looks forward to continuing.

The Wednesday, October 16, 2024, Central Valley Community Election Forum was hosted by ONME News, in collaboration with community organizations, Black Women Organized for Political Action, Fresno, San Joaquin Valley Chapter, also known as BWOPA) Black American Political Association of California, Fresno Chapter,  also known as Bay PACK; The NAACP #1038, Fresno Chapter; and the African American Clergy Caucus.ONME News executive producer and publisher Julia Ann Dudley Najieb was the moderator.A representative for the city of Kerman mayoral candidate, Maria Pacheco, who is the incumbent, talked about Pacheco's dedication to helping the city to build and prosper.Thereafter, moderator and host, Dudley Najieb, had a sit-down discussion with Fresno State professor, Dr. Thomas Holyoke, a specialist in American politics, about some of the difficult-to-understand state propositions on the ballot.The night ended with Trustee Area 7 Yolanda Joy Moore who talked about the recent Clovis Unified School District school bond, Measure A that is on the ballot. Moore explains the importance of the measure and that the bond would be issued on the current tax rate for residents--taxes will not increase for local residents: CUSD is maintaining the current tax rate of $155 per $100,000 of assessed value, which is the lowest it has been in the district's history.

The Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Central Valley Community Election Forum hosted by ONME News, in collaboration with community organizations, Black Women Organized for Political Action, Fresno, San Joaquin Valley Chapter, also known as BWOPA) Black American Political Association of California, Fresno Chapter, also known as Bay PACK; The NAACP #1038, Fresno Chapter; and the African American Clergy Caucus features the following Central Valley candidates; Fresno City Council Area 6 candidate, Nick Richardson; State Assembly District 8 candidate, David Tangipa; State Center Community College Area 2 incumbent candidate, Nasreen Johnson; Madera City Council District 4 incumbent candidate; Madera City Council District 4 candidate Derrick Robinson; State Assembly District 27 incumbent candidate Esmeralda Soria; and State Assembly District 27 candidate, Joanna Garcia Rose. ONME News executive producer and publisher Julia Ann Dudley Najieb was the moderator. In Part 2 of the October 9 Central Valley Community Election Forum hosted by ONME News, watch candidates David Tangipa; State Center Community College Area 2 incumbent candidate, Nasreen Johnson; Madera City Council District 4 incumbent candidate; Madera City Council District 4 candidate Derrick Robinson; State Assembly District 27 incumbent candidate Esmeralda Soria; and State Assembly District 27 candidate, Joanna Garcia Rose.

The Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Central Valley Community Election Forum hosted by ONME News, in collaboration with community organizations, Black Women Organized for Political Action, Fresno, San Joaquin Valley Chapter, also known as BWOPA) Black American Political Association of California, Fresno Chapter,  also known as Bay PACK; The NAACP #1038, Fresno Chapter; and the African American Clergy Caucus featured the following Central Valley candidates; Fresno City Council Area 6 candidate, Nick Richardson; State Assembly District 8 candidate, David Tangipa; State Center Community College Area 2 incumbent candidate, Nasreen Johnson; Madera City Council District 4 incumbent candidate; Madera City Council District 4 candidate Derrick Robinson; State Assembly District 27 incumbent candidate Esmeralda Soria; and State Assembly District 27 candidate, Joanna Garcia Rose. ONME News executive producer and publisher Julia Ann Dudley Najieb was the moderator. Also featuring special guest Trustee Area 6 Karla Kirk who talks about the process of school bonds and the Central Unified School District school bond, Measure X that is on the ballot. In this part 1, here is who is featured:  The four political organization collaborators, candidate Nick Richardson and Trustee Karla Kirk on school bonds.

Watch past live footage highlights of Day 3 of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) with ONME News show host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb who recaps on the latest election news in California, with light news commentary between DNC speakers.Dudley Najieb explains more about the U.S. house of representative seat and a summary of the seven contentious races that will affect the make-up of the House in Congress.  She intends to go in depth about the seven U.S. house of representative contentious seats in day four of the DNC.Thereafter, Dudley Najieb talks with San Francisco affiliate news partner from KPOO 89.5 FM, who is on the ground in Chicago, Harrison Chastang who gives a detailed recap of Day 2 & 3 and the mini protests.As key speakers take the stage in day 3, such as former president, Bill Clinton; billionaire talk-show host, Oprah Winfrey; famous comedian, Kenan Thompson; former speaker of the house, Nancy Patricia Pelosi; United States Secretary of Transportation Peter Paul Montgomery Buttigieg; Minnesota U.S. senator, Amy Jean Klobuchar and many other key speakers, at the end of the night, the viewers are introduced to vice-presidential nominee, Tim Walz. Thereafter, a live roundtable discussion with hall of famer and award-winning news publisher, Cheryl Smith and Bay Area news publisher, Brigitte Jones recap on these DNC speeches of the day.Later in the program, Dudley Najieb features an interview with Southern California elected official attending the DNC, Patrice Marshall McKenzie.

Watch past live footage highlights of Day 2of  the Democratic National Convention (DNC) with news show host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb who recaps on the latest election news in California, with light news commentary between DNC speakers.Dudley Najieb reviews and explains the open California's U.S. Senate race vacated by the late Senator Dianne Feinstein.  This seat has been under the control of Democratic leadership in California since 1992.In Californian election news, since there are 10 state ballot measures thise upcoming Novemeber 5 election, Dudley Najieb reviewed the process of how measures and propositions make their way to the ballot.Dudley Najieb also features interview with Fresno, CA DNC delegate, Eric Payne who was at the DNC Day 2 in Chicago, Il.Thereafter, watch a lively roundtable discussion with hall of famer and award-winning news publisher, Cheryl Smith, popular social media influencer, Ashley Ann and Bay Area news publisher, Brigitte Jones who recap on the DNC speeches of the day, and key speakers Second Gentleman, Douglas Emhoff, former first lady, Michelle Obama and former president, Barack Obama.

Watch past live footage highlights of Day 1 the Democratic National Convention (DNC) with news show host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb who recaps on the latest election news in California, with light new commentary between DNC speakers.  Dudley Najieb also talks with San Francisco affiliate news partner from KPOO 89.5 FM, who is on the ground in Chicago, Harrison Chastang who gives a detailed recap, from the live protests to the Black Caucus meeting results.Thereafter, watch a lively roundtable discussion with hall of famer and award-winning news publisher, Cheryl Smith, popular social media influencer, Ashley Ann and Bay Area news publisher, Brigitte Jones who recap on the DNC speeches of the day, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and President Joe Biden.

In this segment of California Politics Now, news host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb reveals the intricate details of 23 videos released, amounting to 14 hours, released by Documented and ProPublica, non-partisan news organizations.In this next segment of California Politics Now, news host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb discusses how Project 2025 directly affects California, especially when it comes to the drastically, changing climate in the state.In the next segment of California Politics Now, news host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb discusses how Project 2025 directly affects California and the rest of the nation regarding popular initiatives and policies:  social security benefits, abolishing the US Department of Education, raising taxes on the middle class, and other common issues with voters.

News host Julia Ann Dudley Najieb reviews the intricate details regarding Project 2025 and its conservative beginningsCA Politics Now Part 1: Julia explains how the Heritage Foundation funded Project 2025 with $22 millionIn this segment of California Politics Now, "About Project 2025," Julia Ann Dudley Najieb explains in detail the key project of the Heritage Foundation: Project 2025. Although the director has recently stepped down, Paul Dans, the project would have a significant impact on California as a whole if it continues to push forward through the Trump-Vance Administration if they win the Nov. 5 2024 election.CA Politics Now Part 2: Running mate, JD Vance, endorses the concept of Project 2025In this second segment of California Politics Now, "About Project 2025," Julia Ann Dudley Najieb explains the JD Vance and former president, Donald Trump connection; although they have attempted to distance themselves from Project 2025, there is no denying the facts that are out there. ...CA Politics Now Part 3: An introduction to how Project 2025 would affect California if implemented

In part 3 discussion of the California Employment Development Department (EDD) news host, Julia A. Dudley Najieb talks to Greg Lawson, Chief of Media and Creative Services for the California EDD about how people can apply to the benefits and services and what is needed to apply online, by phone or via mail.

In part 2 of the ONME Partner Corner, Chief of Media and Creative Services for the California Employment Development Department Greg Lawson talks with news show host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb about the major changes at CA EDD to help applicants and to expedite the processing of the applications.Dudley Najieb reviews the past dismal experiences some people had with the CA EDD and the major changes because of it.https://edd.ca.gov

In part 2 of the ONME Partner Corner, Chief of Media and Creative Services for the California Employment Development Department Greg Lawson talks with news show host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb about the major changes at CA EDD to help applicants and to expedite the processing of the applications.Dudley Najieb review the past dismal experiences some people had with the CA EDD and the major changes because of it.https://edd.ca.gov

In this episode of News Too Real, news show host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb, reviews the latest mass sewage contamination of Southern California beaches, Linda Mar Beach in Pacifica, having a 54 % bacteria rate; San Luis Creek Mouth in San Luis Obispo having a 35% bacteria rate and  Imperial Beach in San Diego, having a 100% bacteria contamination rate.The City of Imperial Beach is in San Diego County shares the Mexico-California border, specifically Tijuana; in just five years, over 100 billion gallons of untreated sewage, industrial waste, and urban runoff have spilled across the U.S.-Mexico border. Last year, labs run by Surfrider's Blue Water Task Force processed 9,538 water samples collected from 567 distinct sampling sites around the U.S. Of the 567 beaches sampled, 362 of them yielded at least one high bacteria result that exceeded state health standards.Part 3: Is California out of its water scare?:California residents are having to adapt to a new way of life when it comes to water conservation: the Newsom administration is urging Californians to adopt a new style of living when it comes to water, according to Governor's Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications (OCPSC) press secretary, Ashley Williams.  In a a final part three discussion, Williams discusses ways residents can conserve water.ONME News Headlines as of June 11, 2024:Hate crime trends in California are on the rise: Reported anti-Black, anti-Latino, and anti-Asian hate crimes increased by 156% overall from 2019 to 2022Replenishing Groundwater in the San Joaquin Valley: Here's a 2024 updateCOMMENTARY: Governor must OK expanded Cal Grant access for struggling students With newly digitized slave ship logs, Berkeley Ph.D. student examines race, power — and literacyFresno's eviction protection program might survive, but advocates say the city still needs rent control 

ONME News Headlines June 7, 2024:FRESNO: Upcoming Black Music Month event this weekend will honor three Fresno community and local leaders EPA finalizes order with California Department of Corrections Regarding San Luis Obispo Treatment Plant  What Biden's border order means for California   California's highest court rejects ‘people as pollution' argument for UC Berkeley housingIs California out of its water scare? California residents are wondering if the drought is over; the numerous atmospheric rains and unseasonal snowfalls have Californians feeling more relaxed about the water situation.  However, experts suggest that we may not be out of the woods due to climate change.In this episode of News Too Real, news host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb talks with Ashley Williams; Press Secretary for the Governor's Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications (OCPSC.)  Ashley Williams serves as Press Secretary for the Governor's Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications (OCPSC) and works on some of the state's priority public awareness efforts.   Prior to joining OCPSC, Ashley worked at a boutique public affairs firm managing strategic communication campaigns across the firm's client portfolio. Ashley has over a decade of experience building successful communications programs for a variety of clients, from government associations and non-profits, to major corporations and high-visibility individuals.   Ashley is a member of the Greater Sacramento Urban League Young Professionals and is a founding member for industry association Black Ownership Matters. She is a graduate of the University of California at Berkeley with a BA in Political Science.   https://saveourwater.com/how-to-save-water/around-the-house/    

New bill SB 478 to take effect this July bans restaurants' hidden 'junk fees'Food & Wine reports that California is banning hidden restaurant fees, in addition to other surcharges.  The rule would also require companies to disclose upfront whether fees are refundable.Some people call them “junk fees.” While some places disclose the surcharges up front on menus and table cards, many others don't. That's led to accusations that restaurants are hiding them and making meals more expensive than diners realize. Now, California is stepping in to stop them. Last October, the state legislature approved a measure that bans hidden fees for hotel stays, as well as tickets to concerts and sporting events.  The new law, SB 478, aimed at banning hidden fees, takes effect in July, according to the office of State Attorney General Rob Bonta.Authored by Sen. Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley, and Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, the new law comes after California's fast-food law took effect in April. Under the new law, the minimum wage for fast-food workers increased from $16 per hour to $20, a move that prompted fast-food companies to raise prices to keep up with labor costs.PG& E's prominent energy rate hikes are due to excessive wildfires happening throughout CaliforniaOn January 1, 2024 PG&E implemented a significant rate increase for all customers; the rate hike has already taken affect, where customers may have noticed the difference in February and March bills. According to the California Public Utilities Commission, the top drivers of PG&E's proposed increases are inflation and significant investments in undergrounding electric lines to decrease wildfire risk. According to PG&E, the change is an increase of approximately 12.8% in 2024, with the typical bill increasing by about $34.50 per month (which uses about 500 kilowatt-hours of electricity each month per typical household), according to the company's estimates.. This is on top of other significant PG&E rate increases in recent years.For instance, on March 7, the Public Utilities Commission approved a PG&E rate hike that will add about $5 a month to the average bill, to begin as soon as April 2024.   The newly approved hike is to expected to compensate for PG&E's previous vegetation management efforts dating back to 2020. The spending was part of PG&E's efforts to limit the risk of wildfires after a string of disastrous blazes that started in 2017 and ultimately led to the utility filing bankruptcy. PG&E said it expects total rate hikes in 2024 will total about $50 more per average customer.State law enforcement makes 500+ arrests, removes nearly 700 pounds of fentanyl as part of San Francisco OperationMarking one year since Governor Newsom deployed California Highway Patrol and California National Guard personnel to a multiagency special operation in San Francisco, the Governor announced this week over 500 arrests made and nearly 700 pounds of fentanyl seized as part of this effort. As part of its operations, the CHP issued 6,200+ citations for illegal activity, made 500+ arrests, and recovered 115+ stolen vehicles.“Our coordinated work to shut down drug markets in San Francisco is making a difference, but we have more work to do,” said San Francisco Mayor London Breed.Building on the Newsom Administration's efforts to improve public safety throughout California, including Oakland and Bakersfield, violent crime and property crime are significantly down year-over-year in San Francisco. This reduction reflects the work of local law enforcement and state and federal efforts.“The California Highway Patrol has been a valuable partner in our work dismantling the drug markets in the Tenderloin and South of Market neighborhoods,” said San Francisco Police Department Chief Bill Scott. “The SFPD and CHP have taken an unprecedented amount of fentanyl off our streets in the last year. We've seen progress, but we're not going to let up in this effort. I want to thank Gov. Gavin Newsom and the members of the California Highway Patrol, San Francisco Area for his assistance in this ongoing work.”“Through collaborative efforts with our partners on both the local and state level, we have made significant strides in San Francisco. These partnerships are proof that when we work together, we can effectively combat crime and enhance public safety in the community,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “For the past year, your California National Guard has been committed to combating the rise of fentanyl in the streets of San Francisco,” said California National Guard Major General Matthew Beevers. “These extraordinary seizure statistics are a direct reflection of the tireless efforts of the highly trained service members from our California communities who directly support law enforcement agencies in this fight.”In addition, CHP and Cal Guard are partners in San Francisco's Drug Market Agency Coordination Center (DMACC), which coordinates with local, state and federal law enforcement and agencies across the City to dismantle the illegal drug markets in the Tenderloin and South of Market neighborhoods.Last week, Governor Newsom announced a similar public safety enforcement effort in Bakersfield that has so far resulted in 211 arrests and recovered 127 stolen vehicles in the area in recent weeks.California has invested $1.1 billion since 2019 to fight crime, help local governments hire more police, and improve public safety.

In this episode of News Too Real with news host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb, the latest California headlines include:  New bill SB 478 to take effect this July bans restaurants' hidden 'junk fees'; PG& E's prominent rate hikes are due to excessive wildfires happening throughout California; State law enforcement makes 500+ arrests, removes nearly 700 pounds of fentanyl as part of San Francisco Operation.Feature:  Dudley Najieb reviewed the state of California's budget deficit and what it will take to get the state budget balanced.  California has depended on the the volatile, one-percent wage earners in tech jobs in California--the demise that boomed during the pandemic, has now sloped.

The Senate has a membership of 40 Senators elected for 4-year terms, 20 to begin every 2 years.During his or her lifetime a person may serve no more than 12 years in the Senate, Assembly, or both, in any combination of terms.Since the passage of Prop 28 in 2012, legislators first elected on or after November 6, 2012, are limited to a maximum of 12 years.Prop 140, passed in 1990, affects any members elected prior to November 6, 2012, and limits them to a maximum of two four-year terms (eight years total). Voters in the 20 odd-numbered districts of the California State Senate will elect their representatives. There are 16 Democratic-held senate seats up for election in 2024, 3 Republican-held seats, and 1 open seat with no incumbent.Here is a review of the first set of California state senate candidates.

The Senate has a membership of 40 Senators elected for 4-year terms, 20 to begin every 2 years.During his or her lifetime a person may serve no more than 12 years in the Senate, Assembly, or both, in any combination of terms.Since the passage of Prop 28 in 2012, legislators first elected on or after November 6, 2012, are limited to a maximum of 12 years.Prop 140, passed in 1990, affects any members elected prior to November 6, 2012, and limits them to a maximum of two four-year terms (eight years total). Voters in the 20 odd-numbered districts of the California State Senate will elect their representatives. There are 16 Democratic-held senate seats up for election in 2024, 3 Republican-held seats, and 1 open seat with no incumbent.Here is a review of the first set of California state senate candidates.

The Senate has a membership of 40 Senators elected for 4-year terms, 20 to begin every 2 years.During his or her lifetime a person may serve no more than 12 years in the Senate, Assembly, or both, in any combination of terms.Since the passage of Prop 28 in 2012, legislators first elected on or after November 6, 2012, are limited to a maximum of 12 years.Prop 140, passed in 1990, affects any members elected prior to November 6, 2012, and limits them to a maximum of two four-year terms (eight years total). Voters in the 20 odd-numbered districts of the California State Senate will elect their representatives. There are 16 Democratic-held senate seats up for election in 2024, 3 Republican-held seats, and 1 open seat with no incumbent.Here is a review of the first set of California state senate candidates.

The Senate has a membership of 40 Senators elected for 4-year terms, 20 to begin every 2 years.During his or her lifetime a person may serve no more than 12 years in the Senate, Assembly, or both, in any combination of terms.Since the passage of Prop 28 in 2012, legislators first elected on or after November 6, 2012, are limited to a maximum of 12 years.Prop 140, passed in 1990, affects any members elected prior to November 6, 2012, and limits them to a maximum of two four-year terms (eight years total). Voters in the 20 odd-numbered districts of the California State Senate will elect their representatives. There are 16 Democratic-held senate seats up for election in 2024, 3 Republican-held seats, and 1 open seat with no incumbent.Here is a review of the first set of California state senate candidates.

The Senate has a membership of 40 Senators elected for 4-year terms, 20 to begin every 2 years.During his or her lifetime a person may serve no more than 12 years in the Senate, Assembly, or both, in any combination of terms.Since the passage of Prop 28 in 2012, legislators first elected on or after November 6, 2012, are limited to a maximum of 12 years.Prop 140, passed in 1990, affects any members elected prior to November 6, 2012, and limits them to a maximum of two four-year terms (eight years total). Voters in the 20 odd-numbered districts of the California State Senate will elect their representatives. There are 16 Democratic-held senate seats up for election in 2024, 3 Republican-held seats, and 1 open seat with no incumbent.Here is a review of the first set of California state senate candidates.

The Senate has a membership of 40 Senators elected for 4-year terms, 20 to begin every 2 years.During his or her lifetime a person may serve no more than 12 years in the Senate, Assembly, or both, in any combination of terms.Since the passage of Prop 28 in 2012, legislators first elected on or after November 6, 2012, are limited to a maximum of 12 years.Prop 140, passed in 1990, affects any members elected prior to November 6, 2012, and limits them to a maximum of two four-year terms (eight years total). Voters in the 20 odd-numbered districts of the California State Senate will elect their representatives. There are 16 Democratic-held senate seats up for election in 2024, 3 Republican-held seats, and 1 open seat with no incumbent.Here is a review of the first set of California state senate candidates.

The Senate has a membership of 40 Senators elected for 4-year terms, 20 to begin every 2 years. During his or her lifetime a person may serve no more than 12 years in the Senate, Assembly, or both, in any combination of terms. Since the passage of Prop 28 in 2012, legislators first elected on or after November 6, 2012, are limited to a maximum of 12 years.Prop 140, passed in 1990, affects any members elected prior to November 6, 2012, and limits them to a maximum of two four-year terms (eight years total). Voters in the 20 odd-numbered districts of the California State Senate will elect their representatives. There are 16 Democratic-held senate seats up for election in 2024, 3 Republican-held seats, and 1 open seat with no incumbent.Here is a review of the state senators terming out.

In this California Politics Now segment, news producer, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb gives commentary regarding the Monday night's CA U.S. Senate seat debate at the Bovard Auditorium on the University Park Campus.According to Politico.com and other news agencies, candidate Adam Schiff who has out-fundraised the field of candidates still remains in a strong position after this debate, although it was candidate Katie Porter who was the standout lead. Candidate Barbara Lee interjected as many points as possible to reiterate her experience and empathy for the average California voter. The only Republican at the top with these three, experienced Democratic politicians, Steve Garvye, a former baseball start, struggled to give defined answers regarding policies. He was often slammed with baseball jargon regarding his lack of political experience and voting record for former president Donald Trump. Normally this would not be an issue if Garvey did not consider himself a conservative moderate which does not match the Repbulican MAGA sentiment.

In the second segment of this episode of, "California Politics Now," news anchor, Julia Dudley Najieb reviews the key races regarding the U.S. House of Rep.'s seats that could affect the control of the House to sway to the Democrats. Meanwhile, Republicans are also making a play for California U.S. House of Rep. seats up and situated in mostly Republican districts. California assisted in passing the control to Republicans in 2022; the speakership went from Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco to Kevin McCarthy of Bakersfield, until he was voted out in October of 2023.

At the start of this episode of "California Politics Now,: news anchor producer, Julia Dudley Najieb, reviews the latest election news concerning the upcoming Jan. 22 debate with the top four candidates in the U.S. Senate race to take the seat of the late-Senator Dianne Feinstein who passed away at the end of last year. As a result, voters will be be faced with two Senate races on their March primary ballots — one for the remainder of Feinstein's term ending Jan. 3, 2025, and the other for a full six-year term ending 2031. The same goes for November ballots, when the top two vote-getters in the primary will duke it out for the partial and full terms. The debate will give voters an idea of where candidates stand on key issues such as immigration, economics, expanded housing. In all, Californians will have the opportunity to cast four votes — two in the primary and two in the general election.

In part 2, of this episode of California Politics Now, Dudley Najieb reviews why the 20th congressional seat is vacant:Redistricting in 2022 returned the district to the San Joaquin Valley. The new 20th district includes parts of Kern, Tulare, Kings, and Fresno counties. It includes the southern Sierra Nevada and western Mojave Desert, with three "fingers" extending west into the valley. Cities in the district include Clovis, Tehachapi, Ridgecrest, Taft, Lemoore, the west and northeast sides of Bakersfield, the south side of Visalia, the northeast side of Tulare, the north side of Hanford, and a sliver of northeastern Fresno including California State University, Fresno. The new 20th district is the most Republican district in California, with a Cook Partisan Voting Index rating of R+16.

In part 1 of this episode of "California Politics Now," news producer, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb went over how the U.S. House of Reps. work and reviewed the elected officials currently serving in those positions.

In this episode of California Politics Now, "Who are California's US Senate Candidates? Part 2," news show host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb, continues with the issues regarding the contentious California U.S. senate seat that is said to be a battleground election in almost 32 years. Democratic Reps. Barbara Lee, Katie Porter and Adam B. Schiff are all running in the regular March 5 primary for a full six-year term.It is uncertain that two Democrats will finish 1-2 in March because Republican Steve Garvey, a former star baseball player for the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres, declared his candidacy and recent polling gives him a fair chance of finishing second behind Schiff.Steve Garvey (Republican Party) is running in a special election to the U.S. Senate to represent California. He is on the ballot in the special primary on March 5, 2024. Garvey is also running for election to the U.S. Senate to represent California. He is on the ballot in the primary on March 5, 2024.

In this episode of California Politics Now with Julia Ann Dudley Najieb, part one of: "Who are California's US Senate Candidates?" reviews the California U.S. senate seat in general: voters in California will elect one member to the U.S. Senate in the general election on November 5, 2024. The primary is March 5, 2024. The filing deadline was December 8, 2023. The election will fill the Class I Senate seat held by Sen. Laphonza Butler (D). Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) appointed Butler after former Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D) died on September 29, 2023. The 2024 election is only the second California Senate race without an incumbent since 1992, the other being the 2016 election following Barbara Boxer's retirement. no clear frontrunner, and thus considers the 2024 election the first truly open California Senate race in 32 years. She is openly lesbian, making her California's first openly LGBTQ Senator and the first openly LGBTQ black woman to serve in Congress.

Take a look at the FREE Kwanzaa events happening throughout California for the 2023 year ...

In this segment of California Politics Now, news host, Julia Dudley Najieb defines what an Electoral College is and the process: The Electoral College -- It's a process, not a place ...The Electoral College is how we refer to the process by which the United States elects the President, even though that term does not appear in the U.S. Constitution. In this process, the States (which includes the District of Columbia just for this process) elect the President and Vice President. Choosing each State's electors is a two-part process.First, the political parties in each State choose slates of potential electors sometime before the general election. Second, during the general election, the voters in each State select their State's electors by casting their ballots.Finally, Dudley Najieb then reviews the top 20 2024 Presidential candidates and the campaign funds each one has raised thus far.

All registered voters will be allowed to vote on nonpartisan contests and voter-nominated offices, such as U.S. congressional offices and state legislative offices, such as state senate, state assembly, municipal government, recalls, ballot measures, and local ballot measures. Here's clarity on the United States Senate race, formerly heald by the late Senator Dianne Feinstein and filled by Governor Newsom's appointment of Senator Laphonza Butler. Sen. Butler announced in October that she will not run in the 2024 elections for the seat she currently occupies until November 5, 2024. Consequently, in 2024, four elections will be held to fill the single senate seat; hence, the reason for four elections for this one seat.

County Registrar's office have sent postcards to registered voters letting them know their political party registration determines which presidential primary candidates will appear on their March 5, 2024 primary election ballot.Political parties decide who can vote for their presidential primary candidates. All registered voters fall under two categories ...

For all active registered voters, a vote-by-mail ballot for the March 5, 2024 Presidential Primary Election will be sent from each county's election office starting February 5, 2024. Ballot drop-off locations open on Tuesday, February 6, 2024. Vote centers open for early in-person voting in all Voter's Choice Act counties beginning on February 24, 2024. Voters can drop off or mail their vote-by-mail ballots as long as they are postmarked on or before Election Day (March 5) and received by March 12, 2024.It was in September of 2017 when Gov. Jerry Brown signed legislation SB 568 that moved California's presidential primary elections to the beginning of March, three months ahead of when they were held in 2016.

In the final segment of this broadcast,California Politics Now: (Part 6) A review of "The Great Red vs. Blue State Debate," the comments that Governor Ron DeSanits have repeatedly made about his state being the safest, even over California is misleading due to a number of fallacies in the reporting of crime data by the state of Florida. In fact, The Marshall Project, which is a nonpartisan, nonprofit news organization that seeks to create and sustain a sense of national urgency about the U.S. criminal justice system, pointed out in a news article that when Gov. DeSantis claimed on stage to the people that Florida's crime is at a "record low," he was using incomplete data.Only 49 agencies from Florida, representing less than 8% of police departments, were included in an FBI federal database last year, according to a Marshall Project analysis. This means more than 500 police departments in Florida — including most of the largest agencies, like the Miami Police Department, the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, and the St. Petersburg Police Department — are missing from the national context. Florida's participation rate is the lowest of any state in the country.Finally, news producer and show host, Julia Dudley Najieb, concludes this broadcast with which state is the safest of the two: California or Florida? Listen to find out!

In this segment of the California Politics Now: (Part 5) A review of "The Great Red vs. Blue State Debate," news producer, Julia Dudley Najieb reviews California's crime states from 2021 through 2023.According to nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank The Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC), California's crime is increasing.California's violent crime rate increased by 5.7%, from 468 crimes per 100,000 residents in 2021 to 495 in 2022. While the rates for robbery (theft with force) and aggravated assault increased by 9.9% and 5.2%, respectively, homicides reversed a two-year upward trend, dropping by 6.1%, and rapes remained essentially the same (0.1% decrease).In 2022, aggravated assaults were 67% of reported violent crimes; 25% of violent crimes were robberies, 7% were rapes, and 1% were homicides. Violent crime rose in 10 of the state's 15 largest counties, and 7 saw increases of at least 10%. San Mateo faced the biggest jump, by 37.5%, but remains one of the 15 largest counties with the lowest violent crime rate (only Orange and Ventura Counties had lower rates in 2022).Dudley Najieb also explains the misunderstanding of Proposition 47 which became effective on November 5, 2014 when California voters voted for it to be a new law. This law seems to get the blame for "crime leniency" in the state, but is often misquoted in regard to its level of power and influence.

Part 4 of California Politics Now: A review of "The Great Red vs. Blue State Debate," news show host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb breaks down the common argument between both Republicans and Democrats campaign comments regarding, "Are crime rates the highest in red states rather than the blue states? Such a question becomes complicated ...According to the Pew Research Center, during the 2022 mid-term elections last year, their research found that Black voters are particularly likely to say violent crime is a very important midterm issue.Black Americans have consistently been more likely than other racial and ethnic groups to express concern about violent crime, and that remains the case this year.Some 81% of Black registered voters say violent crime is very important to their midterm vote, compared with 65% of Hispanic and 56% of White voters. (There were not enough Asian American voters in the Center's survey to analyze independently.)Differences by race are especially pronounced among Democratic registered voters. While 82% of Black Democratic voters say violent crime is very important to their vote this year, only a third of White Democratic voters say the same.For the most part, violence is always a concern to the average voter, or at least it is high on the list. Based on the data from the CDC which goes up to the year 2021, then the stats were compiled by Forbes, states with the highest gun death did to appear to be 10 red states that take up the top 10 spots.

In this part 3 of California Politics Now: A review of "The Great Red vs. Blue State Debate," news show host, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb reviews the two counties in Florida who banned Toni Morrison books in school districts, according to Governor Gavin Newsom's claim of African-American authored-books banned out of Florida schools due to Governor Ron DeSantis imposing laws.The facts of the matter may keep a person puzzled according to the data Dudley Najieb presents in this excerpt.

In the part 2 segment of California Politics Now, A review of 'The Great Red vs. Blue State Debate,' according to CalMatters, California and Florida have the nation's highest and third-highest unhoused populations. But with more than 171,000 unhoused people in California in 2022, the Golden State has a much higher rate: about 44 out of every 10,000 residents are without a home. That's more than three and a half times the rate of residents experiencing homelessness in Florida, according to federal data.In Florida, more than half of unhoused residents are living in some kind of shelter, while two-thirds of unhoused Californians live outside. Homelessness in Florida has actually declined by more than 50% since peaking in 2010.Through the first two years of the pandemic, the homeless count in Florida fell from more than 27,000 in 2020 to just under 26,000 in 2022, while in California it has grown steadily to a record high.Listen now to find out which state turns out to be the worst for most Black Americans to live.

In this part 1 segment of California Politics Now, 'The Great Red vs. Blue State Debate' with Julia Ann Dudley Najieb, viewers first get an in-depth review of the backgrounds of both governors, Gavin Newsom of California and Ron DeSantis of Florida.According to CalMatters, DeSantis accepted Newsom's debate challenge in August, pitting him against someone who is not even in the presidential race. But lacking opportunities to face off directly against Trump, who has refused to participate in the GOP primary debates, DeSantis aimed to show Republican voters that he is best-equipped to take on Democratic President Joe Biden in the general election.Also in this segment, Dudley Najieb reviews the alarming data regarding the living conditions for residents in each state, especially for Black and minority communities.

Check out the latest California news headlines with news producer host, Julia Dudley Najieb, who reviews the top stories from June 21, 2023 to September 22, 2023: from the Bitwise Industries corporate scandal and Antioch & Pittsburgh police officers' scandals to the illegal infectious disease lab found in Reedley, Dudley Najieb goes into details on key stories that made it nationwide and worldwide.Here are the stories in part 2:Will new Racial Equity Commission help reveal the realities of the damages of Proposition 209?California prisons have a drug problem. A strip search policy takes aim at visitorsCalifornia's literacy crisis: There's more to the science of reading than phonicsBREAKING: Governor Gavi

Check out the latest California news headlines with news producer host, Julia Dudley Najieb, who reviews the top stories from June 21, 2023 to September 22, 2023: from the Bitwise Industries corporate scandal and Antioch & Pittsburgh police officers' scandals to the illegal infectious disease lab found in Reedley, Dudley Najieb goes into details on key stories that made it nationwide and worldwide.Here are the stories in part 1:Bitwise Industries files Chapter 7 while former employees remain broken from CEOs' theft of wagesCA: The business community and governor respond to Supreme Court decision on affirmative actionExpert says people in California are exposed to wildfires the mostSmall, wealthy, suburbs contribute to regional housing problems, especially in CaliforniaAnnual business report gives California an 'F' rating for cost of living and business friendlinessActors are demanding that Hollywood catch up with technological changes in a sequel to a 1960 strikeTemecula school district board and community is in turmoil; Governor Newsom steps in the actionGovernor Newsom chooses diverse judicial appointments, a true representation of CaliforniaCalifornia promises better care for thousands of inmates as they leave prisonPain clinic chain to pay $11.4M to settle Medicare and Medicaid fraud claimsONME News Briefs: Here are five key bills signed by Governor Newsom this past July

California Governor Gavin Newsom made an interim appointment October 1, replacing the late U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein's seat with 44-year-old Laphonza Butler. However, this appointment complicates an already complex campaign, according to CalMatters: For one thing, there will be a special election to decide who serves the final two months of Feinstein's term, and it will be held at the same time as the regularly scheduled election. So voters will have two U.S. Senate decisions, one in the March primary, and again in the November presidential general election. Butler was sworn in October 3 by Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black U.S. senator to represent California and the most recently-elected Black woman to the Senate. Butler will be making history as the first openly LGBTQ person and the second Black woman to represent California in the Senate. Although never holding office, Butler also advised Vice President Kamala Harris' 2020 presidential campaign before becoming the president of EMILYs List in September 2021.And if Butler does run, it will throw another wild card into the campaign, in which three big-name Democrats — U.S. Reps. Adam Schiff, Katie Porter and Barbara Lee — are already vying to push aside Republican candidates and make the top two for next November's general election.

Check out the upcoming early fall events happening throughout California for the remainder of 2023Looking for some events to go to during the early fall months while the weather is tolerable in California? Then check out the events happening below throughout the state.

As California's senior Senator and the longest-serving woman senator ever since her election to the Senate in 1992, Democrat Dianne Feinstein, the 90-year-old senior senator from California, died on Sept. 28, 2023 in Washington, D.C. She was born in San Francisco, CA, June 22, 1933.

Images of orange groves and Spanish-themed hotels with palm tree gardens filled countless pamphlets and articles promoting Southern California and Florida in the late 19th century, promising escape from winter's reach.This vision of an “American Italy” captured hearts and imaginations across the U.S. In it, Florida and California promised a place in the sun for industrious Americans to live the good life, with the perfect climate.But the very climates that made these semitropical playgrounds the American dream of the 20th century threaten to break their reputations in the 21st century.In California, home owners now face dangerous heat waves, extended droughts that threaten the water supply, and uncontrollable wildfires. In Florida, sea level rise is worsening the risks of high-tide flooding and storm surge from hurricanes, in addition to turning up the thermostat on already humid heat. Global warming has put both Florida and California at the top of the list of states most at risk from climate change.

The company behind the '"illegal lab" in Reedley also operated for several years in the city of Fresno incognito ...Ever since local online, Central Valley news outlet, Mid Valley Times, posted a peculiar news report on July 25 about a code-enforcement check-up revealing an illegal lab, in the predominantly agricultural city of Reedley, Calif., owned by a man who lives in China, more interesting facts are being exposed to the public through news updates.

Southern California residents have been warned to evacuate; see which areasSACRAMENTO, Calif.--The National Weather Service is warning that severe tropical weather could impact several parts of California starting this weekend. In advance of the storm, residents are urged to stay away from parks, deserts, waterways and off-roadways, and anticipate power outage and water shut offs.With the possibility of lightning, heavy rainfall, flash flooding, high surf – and even wildfire – the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is also advising residents to stay alert, prepare early, and follow all safety guidelines.Today, Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency for much of Southern California to support Hurricane Hilary response and recovery efforts as the state continues mobilizing and coordinating resources ahead of the storm's forecasted impacts starting today. The Governor signed the emergency proclamation in San Diego while visiting with California National Guard troops. Also today, the Governor met with first responders and local officials, including San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. He also was in touch with federal officials, including the White House.“California has thousands of people on the ground working hand-in-hand with federal and local personnel to support communities in Hurricane Hilary's path with resources, equipment and expertise. We're mobilizing all of government as we prepare and respond to this unprecedented storm,” said Governor Newsom.“As we head into this weekend, I urge Angelenos to continue monitoring the hurricane and be mindful of extreme weather warnings,” said Mayor Karen Bass. “We know the severe impact that weather can have on our communities. I am making sure Los Angeles is prepared on behalf of our residents, including the unhoused Angelenos living on our streets, to get through this storm.”