San Diego News Matters

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KPBS' daily news podcast covering local politics, education, health, environment, the border and more. New episodes are ready weekday mornings so you can listen on your morning commute.

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    • May 8, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 15m AVG DURATION
    • 1,497 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from San Diego News Matters

    New affordable housing complex opens in Downtown San Diego

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026 11:58


    First, a new 88-unit affordable housing community just landed in Downtown. Then, new information on ICE arrests was just released from members of San Diego's congressional delegation. Also, we'll tell you about some recent complications at the Escondido Public Library. And our feature story highlights the San Diego International Fringe Festival returning for its 14th year. Last but not least, some weekend event ideas for you and yours happening across the county.

    The dangers faced by Tijuana journalists

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 14:06


    First, join us as we spend the day with some of Tijuana's most seasoned journalists. Then, SDSU is using artificial intelligence to keep track of those experiencing homelessness in the county. And, a disabled veteran managed to ride a bicycle again thanks to help from some local college students. Also, numerous organizations spoke out against budget cuts at a recent meeting. And, with Halloween nearly six months away, we share a way that you can still satisfy your need for fright!

    Immigration rights activists demand answers after arrest of cruise ship workers

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 10:19


    First, why were roughly ten local cruise workers detained last month? Then, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria's proposed budget cuts would gut a key element of the city's effort to improve traffic safety. Also, incumbent Carl DeMaio is facing a challenger in the race to represent the 75th District in the state legislature. Also, we tell you about a massive animal rescue that took place recently in Julian.

    The Immigrant Rights Consortium cites lack of communication and transparency from San Diego Mayor's office

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2026 11:54


    First, would the city of San Diego be prepared if a large-scale federal immigration enforcement operation took place? Also, as ballots have begun being sent out, Democratic Congress members warn of threats to voters rights. Then, come November, county voters could choose to raise the sales tax. And, your San Diego Padres announce new ownership.

    1 in 3 unsheltered San Diegans are 55 years or older

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 10:55


    First, we break down the numbers behind this year's homelessness census. Then, we'll tell you why revenue coming from the City of San Diego's trash collection fee is falling short. Also, a year-long effort is now underway to inquire about building a university in Chula Vista. And, more history you might not have been aware of from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.

    USD law clinic works to meet the need for more immigration lawyers

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2026 11:12


    First, the University of San Diego Law Immigration Clinic looks to give students real-life experience and fill the need for more immigration lawyers. Then, Chula Vista is changing its rule on police purchasing military equipment without approval from the city council. Also, Jacumba Hot Springs is asking the county to intervene in a solar project that is causing dust in the area. Meanwhile, there are concerns over a planned transmission line. Plus, some weekend event ideas.

    El Cajon sues California over sanctuary state law

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026 12:29


    First, El Cajon is suing over a state law that prohibits state and local law enforcement from assisting with federal immigration enforcement. Next, the La Mesa City Council is holding off on a vote on an e-bike ban. And, how a nonprofit is trying to preserve farm land in the county. Then, a documentary about the toll gang laws have taken on San Diegans. Plus, how county libraries are marking America's 250th anniversary.

    Chula Vista's new ordinance requires police to disclose contact with federal agents

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2026 11:13


    First, a new ordinance requires Chula Vista police to disclose any contact with federal immigration agents. Then, the California Highway Patrol just completed a 24-hour statewide crackdown on speeding. Also, we spoke with some locals about their American identity as the USA's 250th anniversary swiftly approaches. And, April is Earthquake Preparedness Month, we'll tell you some safety tips that could keep you safe.

    San Diegans consider EVs as gas prices continue to increase

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2026 10:35


    First, are rising gas prices pushing people to switch to electric? Then, construction has begun on cabins being built for those experiencing homelessness in Lemon Grove. Also, the city of Coachella is the latest to go to battle over an AI data center's development. And, we'll tell you some of the past lives that Marine Corps Air Station Miramar has had throughout its history.

    ai coachella gas prices san diegans lemon grove marine corps air station miramar
    Local nonprofit found fewer people living in the San Diego Riverbed than year before

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026 12:18


    First, we'll tell you about the San Diego River Park Foundation's Clean River Program and the impact it has had on those experiencing homelessness. Then, some elected officials and environmental groups have joined forces to fight against offshore drilling. Also, this November will decide whether significant changes need to be made to county governance. And, we'll tell you how one local is making great use of his retirement by keeping his love of music alive in a unique and creative way.

    San Diego congressional candidate broke Pentagon rules in his campaign

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2026 13:45


    San Diego congressional candidate Ammar Campa-Najjar violated Pentagon rules on political campaigns. Then, hear from a Logan Heights library assistant who is retiring after nearly 40 years at the branch. And, why concert ticket prices have skyrocketed since the pandemic. Plus, things to do this weekend.

    Campaign finance records show Rep. Vargas received money from AIPAC despite claiming otherwise

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2026 15:16


    First, Congressman Juan Vargas said “AIPAC has never given me a penny,” but a look into campaign finance records says otherwise. Also, Poway is being sued by both the state and a local tribe over a housing development project. Including, a new report by the American Lung Association says that San Diego County is among the most polluted counties in America. Then, another installation of the Pod Behind the Package centered around Giants, an art exhibit that recently landed at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.

    Prop. 4 sets aside $50 million towards border water quality projects

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2026 10:55


    First, Proposition 4 sets aside funding for border water quality projects, we'll tell you how the funding will be split up and distributed. Then, pushback continues against Mayor Todd Gloria's proposed budget. Also, La Mesa is the latest city in the county to approve of new e-bike ordinances. And, as part of Earth Day coverage, we profile Dr. Plastic Picker.

    U.S. Navy continues to enforce blockade of Iranian ports

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2026 13:23


    First, we'll tell you what happened when a San Diego-based destroyer ship fired on an Iranian Cargo ship. An arrest has been made as part of continued-tension around a local data center's development. Then, hundreds gathered outside of city hall to protest the near-elimination of arts and culture from the city's budget. Also, we bring you a preview of the third annual WOW festival.

    Four San Diego City Council seats will be on the upcoming ballot

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 11:55


    First, as part of our primary coverage, we tell you about the crowded field of candidates for San Diego City Council seats. Then, the Coronado Unified School District is doing away with cellphone usage during the school day. Also, the San Diego Padres may soon have new owners. And, some long-awaited trail improvements have finally come to Ruffin Canyon.

    San Diego City Councilmembers continue debate around special event parking

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026 13:22


    First, at least one member of the San Diego City Council wants to lower the rates for special event parking. Then, new reporting indicates that forming a public utility company could save San Diegans hundreds per year. Also, we bring you a story about mirror movement development and the impact it had on one local man. And, we bring you a preview of the Art With Teeth film festival. Plus, as we do for you every weekend, we give you some events happening across the county.

    Thousands more will have access to San Diego Unified's free afterschool program

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 9:09


    First, enrollment begins this upcoming Monday for the recently-expanded San Diego Unified free afterschool program. Then, we'll tell you why the cost of buses, trolleys and trains could increase. Also, Mayor Todd Gloria is proposing cuts to the city's budget. And, we bring you an early preview of “Giants” opening at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego this weekend.

    Measure A is going before San Diego voters this upcoming June

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2026 11:47


    First, voters will weigh in on a tax on empty second homes.Then, we'll tell you why some former librarians are suing the Grossmont Union High School District. Also, a new report breaks down why California animals are struggling with migration and what can be done about it. And, the San Diego Book Crawl returns next week!

    Federal records show last year was the deadliest ever for ICE Detention Centers

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 11:58


    First, we'll tell you some of the contributing factors around why 2025 was the deadliest year ever recorded for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Detention Centers. Then, we'll tell you why more and more flights coming from San Diego's military airports are deportation flights. And, we'll tell you about a new legislature that looks to build more affordable housing in our cities' urban centers. Also, uncomfortable conversations around death are moving to more social settings like a bar. And, International Dark Sky Week is here! We'll tell you about some of the stargazing events happening across San Diego County this week.

    New data confirms most San Diego college students are using AI

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 7:02


    First, new data has confirmed what many were already skeptical of: most San Diego college students are using AI. Then, a San Diego lawmaker wants chain restaurants to be more transparent about drinks that are packed with sugar. Also, we'll tell you why San Diego County is selling water to Riverside County.

    As Artemis II splashes down, San Diego's ties to NASA go back decades

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2026 16:43


    First, we look back at local ties to NASA's space program as Artemis II splashes down off the coast of San Diego. Then, we take a look at the impact of the war on local military families. Also, we take a look into why the San Diego Velodrome has begun hosting races that exclude transgender women. And plans for a local battery project in Escondido have now fallen through. SeaWorld is moving past fireworks and onto drones. Plus, some weekend events for you and yours to enjoy.

    Imperial County board clears way for data center amid pushback from some residents

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2026 14:07


    First, the Imperial County board of supervisors voted to clear the way for a massive data center complex. Then, we take you to an emergency food distribution as some are already feeling the effects of new federal cuts to nutrition benefits. Also, San Diego county's animal services department has hired a new director and deputy. And as part of our continuing coverage of America turning 250 years old this July 4th, we take a deep examination into the facts and fiction behind our nation being labeled a “melting pot.”

    San Diegans call for peace at protest

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2026 12:47


    First, we spoke with some San Diegans of Iranian descent about the ongoing war. Then, what some are calling a loophole in the oversight of the San Diego Police Department. Also, an investigation found that influential donors have donated thousands of dollars to county supervisor offices, we'll tell you what they spent the funds on. Including, Cesar Chavez's name will be removed from another building in the county.

    San Marcos wildfire is second since late March to force evacuations

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2026 12:12


    First, we speak with a CalFire Captain about how last month's heatwave started drying out plants and grass earlier than anticipated. Then, a new state campaign is sounding the alarm on high-dosage vapes and nicotine pouches. Also, we'll tell you about three local filmmakers who are in the final days of a kickstarter to fund their independent movie.

    San Diego County's unemployment rate inches up

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 12:42


    First, we break down the county's rising unemployment rate. Then, a preview of an important vote on a proposed data center in Imperial County. And, how a proposed state law could help the Midway Rising project move forward. Also, we talk to a woman who tracks her family's spending on food. Plus, Birch Aquarium is studying baby red octopuses.

    Two local representatives were granted entry inside the Otay Mesa Detention Center

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2026 12:37


    First, Representatives Sara Jacobs and Mike Levin got a look inside the Otay Mesa immigration detention center. Also, we bring you an update on a decades-long effort to restore California fisheries. Then, we'll bring you the story of a Chula Vista tall ship considered an asset to the community. Plus, the inspiration behind this year's Beatles Fair.

    The Supreme Court heard arguments over restricting birthright citizenship

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2026 11:07


    We hear from a legal expert on the birthright citizenship case in front of the Supreme Court. Then, Catholics gathered outside of the Federal Courthouse downtown as a reaffirmed commitment to accompany migrants inside. Also, we'll tell you about two middle-schoolers who won first place for their documentary.

    San Diego County Sheriff's Office nearly tripled number of inmates sent to ICE custody

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2026 13:16


    First, San Diego county jail ICE transfers tripled last year, we'll tell you why. Also, with some citing concerns over a lack of oversight, state auditors say they will now conduct audits of law enforcement's so-called “fusion centers.” Then, three local non-profits were awarded with new electric vehicles. Finally, a tour and visit to the Navy Seal Museum.

    Chicana leaders grapple with rape allegations against César Chávez

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2026 13:22


    First, we spoke with leaders in the Chicano community about how their community is processing the rape allegations against César Chávez. As well as, how one city in Imperial County is confronting those same allegations. Then, an audit on fire-rescue response times and whether the department is meeting its goals. And, a new exhibit at the USS Midway Museum looks to highlight prisoners of war.

    Thousands demonstrated in San Diego as part of nationwide No Kings protests

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 8:21


    First, peaceful protests were held across San Diego County in solidarity with nationwide protests. Then, the median rent in San Diego has gone down, we explore why. Also, state leaders respond to federal cuts to public broadcasting. And, we'll tell you the impact that Helix Water District's new high-speed charging depot could have.

    It's baseball season at Petco Park

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026 16:26


    First, we get reactions from Padres fans and players on the club's opening day. Then, a look into what the work of the Innocence and Justice Clinic means for people in San Diego's justice system. And, a new bill that would direct the state to stop taxing military retirements. Plus, we have an interview with the author of a new book about Black comedy. And of course, we have a few weekend event ideas for you.

    California's big-city mayors lobby state lawmakers for money to fund homeless programs

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2026 13:13


    First, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria joined other big-city mayors from California to plead with state lawmakers for $1 billion in funding for those experiencing homelessness. Then, a UCSD researcher looked at the impact behind this winter's immigration enforcement efforts in Minnesota. Also, we take a look at streetcars and the impact they had in San Diego and if they could make a comeback one day. And, how much money from parking fees do you think the city collected last year at Padres games? Plus, a preview of the San Diego Arab Film Festival.

    Residents living near Tijuana River request more frequent elevated sewage gas alerts

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2026 18:11


    First, we'll tell you how last week's heat wave affected those living near the Tijuana River. Also, we bring you a story about research looking into a new way to use probiotics. Then, one local leader is proposing changes to protect end-of-life care. Next, a look at what's new at Petco Park as the Padres get ready to kick off their season on Thursday. We'll also bring you a look into Comic-Con's sister convention.

    ICE agents dispersed to airports across country amid TSA staffing shortages

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2026 10:14


    First, ICE agents are being sent to airports across the country, we'll tell you the latest regarding San Diego International Airport. Then, a new bill in Congress seeks to help with rising energy costs. Also, San Diego's East County has become a popular landing spot for large clean energy projects – a cause for concern for some.

    Cesar Chavez name-removal begins following recent explosive allegations

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 15:13


    First, as tributes to Cesar Chavez are being removed, some local students are grappling with the impact to the labor movement. And the county is now one step closer to a referendum on major governance reforms. We'll also explain how and why people across the region are living longer and what a deeper look into the numbers reveals. Plus, another installment of SDNN's Pod Behind the Package.

    City of Chula Vista faces legal claims from its Police Chief

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2026 11:47


    First, Chula Vista's Police Chief is suing the city of Chula Vista. Then, where local governments are lacking in transparency. Also, a new ordinance prohibits digging holes over two feet deep at Del Mar beaches.. Plus, the county wants input on the future of a North County boarding school for foster youth. And, some weekend event ideas.

    Governor Newsom will consider renaming Cesar Chavez Day

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 12:46


    First, following recent allegations made against Cesar Chavez, we'll tell you how Governor Newsom and some San Diego local leaders reacted to the news. Then, the San Diego City Council passed a resolution defining antisemitism. Also, we'll tell you about new guidelines set by the Encinitas Arts Commission and the impact they could have. Plus, the story of a local duo who just put out a children's book centered around Persian New Year.

    County urges public to take action before new federal restrictions kick in

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2026 16:00


    First, new federally-imposed requirements to CalFresh and Medi-Cal will begin being phased in on April 1st. Then, the county received Proposition 1 funding for a behavioral health campus in the Midway District. Also, San Diego is set to host two World Cup teams. And a story about an orchestra that has created a space for people to play freely with no judgement. Lastly, a sneak peak at the 33rd annual San Diego Latino Film Festival.

    Marines: Rare malfunction caused last year's artillery shell explosion

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 11:19


    First, a Marine Corps investigation says a rare malfunction was the cause of an artillery explosion over the I-5 last fall. Then, San Diego County supervisor Paloma Aguirre is calling on SANDAG to deny immigration officials access to a law enforcement database. Plus, more on dwindling election trust ahead of the midterms. And, we visit a landfill-turned-garden in Paradise Hills.

    Candidate with ties to data center project is running for water and power agency board seat

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 13:34


    First, a candidate with ties to a ten billion dollar data center project is also running for a board seat on Imperial County's water and power agency. Then, we'll tell you how and why trust in elections has decreased. Also, a look at e-bike injuries as the full San Diego City Council will soon make a decision on proposed e-bike regulations. And, Nascar is coming to Naval Air Station North Island. Plus, the Coronado Unified School District might be tightening its cell phone policies.

    Two men admit their charity was fake and they pocketed the money

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2026 19:28


    First, we'll tell you how a long-standing tradition was manipulated by two locals. Then, the mental health impact of ICE detaining kids and their parents. Also, we dive deeper into the cost of transportation and offer some ideas on how to save a buck. And, a local exhibit that takes inspiration from the artist's Iranian childhood. We will also tell you about some weekend events happening across the county.

    One San Diego family's' detention story

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 17:48


    First, thousands have been deported across the county, we spoke with one family who shared their detention story with us. Then, a multi-year study tracks the impact that financial support and training is having on the lives of women in Tijuana. Also, we tell you about our findings as to why SDG&E rates have climbed so high. We also hear about San Diego's largest business organization weighing in on the Tijuana River sewage crisis. Lastly, San Diego's largest school district says it's found a way to close its budget gap.

    San Diego county officially sues DHS over access to Otay Mesa Detention Center

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 12:16


    First, the county has officially made good on their promise to sue the Department of Homeland Security if not granted access inside the Otay Mesa Detention Center. Also, we bring you a story about how a simple blood test could help to predict dementia. Last but not least, we visit a local gathering place that's rooted in community and ancestral connection.

    Professor: Trump administration remains vague on objectives of Iran war

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 13:56


    First, ten days into the war with Iran and we are still unclear on how or what an ending to the conflict would look like. Also, Lemon Grove's city council is one step closer to an ordinance that could expand protections for renters. We'll also tell you about the San Diego Zoo's new lease with the city. Then, we'll bring you to a place so eclectic that it can be hard to describe in March's Museum A Month. Lastly,we bring you the details about a new play commissioned by The Old Globe.

    Locals celebrating Ramadan say war in Middle East is casting a shadow over sacred month

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 18:22


    First, as we enter the last 10 days of Ramadan, local Muslims say ongoing conflict in the Middle East is a top concern. Also, a new state law is giving school board members a shot at a major pay raise. Then, we spoke with locals about what they feel being American means as this year marks 250 years since The Declaration of Independence was signed. Lastly, a conversation with the curator behind an exhibition currently showing at UCSD's Mandeville Art Gallery.

    Latest round of tariffs imposed by Trump administration now faces legal challenge

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026 15:47


    First, the latest round of tariffs targets nearly every country in the world, and now it is now facing legal challenges. Then, a new transitional living program just landed in North County. Also, we'll tell you what a death cafe is and what they're all about. Plus, we tell you about the San Diego Zoo Safari Park's new Elephant Valley!

    San Diego County plans to sue the Department of Homeland Security

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 15:22


    First, we'll tell you why San Diego County is planning to sue the Department of Homeland Security. Then, dozens of employees at San Diego Unified could be laid off at the end of the school year. Also, Lemon Grove community members are marking the anniversary of one of America's first successful desegregation court cases. And, a new soccer park is coming to San Diego ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Plus, we tell you how one organization is expanding what's considered to be art worth protecting. Lastly, director Maggie Gyllenhaal reimagines Frankenstein by centering the bride.

    A coalition of nonprofits is stepping up amid partial government shutdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 12:17


    First, a few local nonprofits are organizing and preparing amid the ongoing partial government shutdown. Also, a California Senator recently put pressure on the Homeland Security Secretary regarding being granted access into detention facilities. Then, the Supreme Court recently weighed in on whether schools must tell parents if their child is transgender. And Chula Vista is getting a new public park along its waterfront. Lastly we tell you about an independent production company making its mark in Baja.

    San Diego reaction to attacks on Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2026 20:15


    First, local Iranian leaders say they feel “mixed-emotions” for what could be next for the country. Then, thousands of San Diego service members are participating in air strikes against Iran. Also, a conversation about why prominent author and wellness guru Deepak Chopra's tenure at UCSD is ending in June. And, a former Mayor who has left his party behind to launch a campaign for a seat on the San Diego City Council. Plus , Part 2 on a unique partnership between law enforcement and one community. Lastly, a controversy over bike lanes in North County and parking at Balboa Park.

    Immigration court observers briefly detained by federal agents at downtown federal building

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2026 19:12


    First, immigration court observers were briefly detained and cited on Thursday. Then, we bring you one story of how law enforcement and the community partnered up. And, some are now celebrating after a school board reversed course on a plan to lay off librarians. We also give you an early preview of what you can expect at the Carlsbad Flower Fields. Lastly, another offering of the SDNN original, Pod Behind the Package.

    Regulatory decision sees SDG&E profits decline by a third

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 10:15


    First, San Diego Gas and Electric profits fell by a third because of a large, one-time charge. Also, Escondido City Council has chosen to continue letting federal immigration officers train at a city-owned firing range. Then, the federal government swiftly responded to a sewage spill in the Potomac River, with some local residents living near the San Diego-Mexico border saying they feel left behind. And, we tell you about a sports competition where winning isn't the priority. Last but not least, we share some weekend events happening across the county for you and yours to possibly take part in! Correction: A previous version of this story said without the disallowance, SDG&E would have made close to $1 billion in profit. According to their spokesperson, that is incorrect.

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