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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    • Nov 6, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 15m AVG DURATION
    • 1,373 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from San Diego News Matters

    Blain resigns one day after recall election

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 12:35


    First, Proposition 50 has passed and been approved in San Diego County. Then, Poway Councilman Tony Blain resigned just one day after the vote to recall him . Then, after months of discussion a biofuel depot project in National City was struck down. Next, we spoke with the granddaughter of the Mary's Donuts founder about her grandmother's legacy. Finally, a preview of the San Diego Asian Film Festival.

    RV owners say the city is violating the terms of a settlement

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 12:19


    First, a settlement was reached last year between the city of San Diego and a group of RV owners who live in their vehicles, but now the RV owners say the city is violating terms of the settlement. Then, the San Diego City Council votes to raise valet parking fees. And, an interview with journalist and author, Osita Nwanevu. Then, oyster castles in South County are protecting against erosion. Finally, a San Diego dog who will star in the next “Air Bud” film!

    San Diego County board takes up proposal in response to federal cuts

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2025 10:09


    First, the county is considering a proposal that would bolster access to healthcare benefits starting at the end of next year when stricter federal eligibility requirements take effect.. Then, the latest on the charges against Poway councilman Tony Blain. Finally, we bring you a story on challenges in the workplace for women in the age of telework and hybrid offices.

    Judge rules Trump administration must fund SNAP payments during shutdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 20:55


    First, the Trump administration has been ordered by a judge to continue funding food support amid the ongoing federal shutdown. Then, a new fight over short-term rentals is heating up. Next, KPBS starts looking at how families with kids are making ends meet across the county. We tell you the latest on plans to build cabins for those experiencing homelessness in East County. And that's all followed by new segments of Museum a Month & Pod Behind the Package.

    400,000 San Diego County residents could miss food assistance due to federal shutdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 14:39


    First, how San Diego City College is stepping up to help students prepare amid the ongoing government shutdown. We also bring you the latest details on local food banks doing their part as well amid the shutdown. Then, another major airline would like to fly out of McClellan-Palomar airport. Next, we tell you about two signature horse racing events happening in the county. Followed by three new recipients of the San Diego Art Prize. Finally, some weekend event ideas happening across the county

    County agrees to pay largest-ever wrongful death settlement

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2025 12:46


    First, San Diego County just agreed to pay its largest-ever wrongful death settlement. Next a safe-sleeping and parking site will be coming to the former Central Elementary in San Diego. Then, this week Oceanside is replenishing the sand on Tyson Street Beach, but we tell you why it's only a temporary solution. Followed by, the impact of the government shutdown on this year's Fleet Week. Finally, we tell you how streaming can affect your mental health.

    Water and sewage rates will increase in the city of San Diego

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2025 12:32


    First, the San Diego City Council approved two years of water and sewage rate hikes. Then, it's been three months since the city of San Diego began clearing encampments alongside roadways, we bring you the latest on that effort. Next, UC San Diego researchers found that some satellite communications were being beamed towards Earth unencrypted. Plus, the National City Public Library now offers a bit more than just books.

    Legislators again denied access to ICE detention facility

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2025 18:22


    First, a delegation of legislators representing San Diego County was again refused entry into an ICE detention facility. Then, the San Diego City Council voted to take over funds managed by parking districts. Next, the cheapest housing option in San Diego has been dorm-style rooms, we tell you why they are rapidly disappearing. Followed by a look at the Día de Muertos altar at Tijuana's Mercado Hidalgo. Finally, we get some bat facts from the experts at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

    Palomar and UC San Diego Health agree to create joint powers authority

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 13:22


    First, Palomar and UC San Diego Health plan to combine to form a joint powers authority. The move is an effort to improve Palomar's financial position after recent struggles. Then, charges have been filed against Poway Councilmember Tony Blain. Plus, we bring you an update on how women veterans are being helped by Wounded Warriors Homes. Next, we speak with some high school students in the county looking to hold people accountable for their part in pollution. Finally, another installment of ourPod Behind The Package segment.

    Insurance premiums in lower-income areas could nearly double

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 10:45


    First, health care premiums are set to rise for nearly 150,000 San Diegans who are insured through the Affordable Care Act. Then, lawmakers are asking why the Marines fired live ammunition over Interstate 5 last weekend. And, five tribes are launching a commission to safeguard a new national monument. We also tell you about dozens of emergency vehicles being used in an emergency-response exercise. Next, both top flight men's and women's soccer teams are playoff bound! Finally, a collection of events to check out this weekend.

    Federal government shutdown could delay CalFresh benefits

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 11:50


    First, as we begin the 23rd day of the government shutdown, CalFresh benefits for next month are at risk. Then, a new report explains how National City has added hundreds of affordable housing over the past 5 years. Next, we take a look at how AI is being utilized in schools, work and videogames. Finally, an update on the Tijuana River Community Garden.

    Why the city says a ruling on building height limits won't stop Midway Rising

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 12:16


    A judge again rules San Diego can't remove building height limits in the Midway District. Then, we check in on the airport TSA amid the ongoing government shutdown. Also, students and teachers say they're frustrated with the Grossmont Union School Board decisions disrupting school library operations. And the latest on the Camp Pendleton Marine pilot killed last week in a helicopter crash. Finally, an Escondido pool closed since COVID is again open.

    Reports of detainees in federal building basement allegedly exceeding building's capacity

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 12:55


    First, two San Diego congressmen were denied entry into a federal building downtown. We tell you why. Then, if approved, a new ordinance would restrict Immigration and Customs Enforcement from accessing city facilities. That's followed by part two of our interview with the chief economist at the San Diego Regional Policy & Innovation Center. Finally, we discover a nonprofit organization that supports people experiencing homelessness through music.

    San Diegans show up by the thousands as part of national ‘No Kings' protests

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 18:32


    San Diegans showed up in the thousands as part of nationwide ‘No Kings'' protests. Then, after initial reports confirmed no closures, a busy stretch of Interstate 5 was closed for roughly 90 minutes on Saturday. Followed by, an economic forecast for the county. Then, we explain why you will see fewer plastic bags at the checkout aisle. Finally, we speak with KPBS' environment reporter for this week's Pod Behind the Package.

    Clearing up reports of planned freeway closures

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 13:58


    First, we clear up any confusion around freeway closures near Camp Pendleton this weekend. Then, we bring the latest news from the military this week, including members of the Pentagon Press Corps turning in their credentials. Then, a bill has been signed paving the way for carbon capture pipelines. Next, details around the North Park Book Fair and why it almost didn't happen. Finally, we bring you details on more weekend events happening across the county.

    El Cajon has no plans to stop sharing license plate surveillance data out-of-state

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 15:53


    First, the El Cajon City Council made it clear on Tuesday that it has no intention of stopping the sharing of license plate surveillance data with out of state agencies. Then, Governor Newsom is not supporting a ban on glitter, we tell you why. Next, California is taking a closer look at exactly what it would take to bring a university to Chula Vista. Plus, a big change is coming to the registrar of voters office, we tell you its possible impact. Finally, a conversation with author and social commentator Roxane Gay.

    Health care workers strike for safe staffing, fair pay and benefits

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 9:34


    First, it's estimated that nearly 2,000 Kaiser Permanente health care workers walked off the job Tuesday. Then, with Northeast San Diego County becoming a battleground for the upcoming Proposition 50 ballot vote, we talk to people in the county about potential redistricting. Plus, a new state law means more housing near transit stops is coming to San Diego County.

    New trash bins are heading your way

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 11:16


    First, new trash bins started rolling out Monday to residents in the city of San Diego. Then, what's next now that Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law a bill creating a state Bureau for Descendants of American Slavery. And, Poway residents in District 2 will vote in November on recalling councilmember Tony Blain. Plus, a small group of veterans and local boosters are working to get the 2029 Invictus Games to San Diego.

    Governor Newsom signs historic reparations bill

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 20:25


    First, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a historic reparations bill, as well as a major housing bill, we bring you the details on both. Then, the Grossmont Union High School District board approves a proposal to limit where protesters can stand during board meetings. Next, new trash bins and accompanying fees start going out this week. We also look into the Books Unbanned Initiative. Finally, another installment of our The Pod behind the Package.

    Newsom faces deadline to veto or sign California reparations package

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2025 12:45


    First, Governor Gavin Newsom has a historic package of reparations on his desk to either veto or sign. Then, as the government shutdown continues, 100,000 service members across San Diego County are less than a week away from a missing check. Next, the College Area has a plan in place for development. Finally, another installment of our weekend events segment.

    KPBS investigates how far El Cajon's license plate surveillance data has been shared

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2025 14:25


    First, a KPBS investigation revealed that data gathered by the El Cajon Police Department's license plate surveillance program has been included in nationwide immigration-related searches more than 550 times this year. . Then, the Grossmont Union-High School board is voting on proposals regarding religious guidelines. Next, San Diego is updating its guidelines on historic preservation. Followed by, Cinema Junkie taking a look into the San Diego Filipino Film Fest.

    Many San Diegans are putting major life decisions on hold

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2025 12:52


    First, life is in limbo for some San Diegans as they try to navigate choppy political and economic conditions. Next, a new California law will require certain local governments to translate public meeting agendas. Then, the number of students graduating from San Diego Unified prepared for college or career is at a 8-year high.

    Immigrant dies in Imperial County immigration detention facility

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2025 12:38


    First, immigrant rights groups say the man's death fits into a pattern of dwindling oversight and increasingly harsh conditions – at the Imperial County detention center and others across the country.. Then, a San Diego City Council member is proposing a tax on those with second homes and vacation rentals. Next, ballots have gone out to vote on Proposition 50 – we tell you how it could impact San Diego County. Plus, the operators of the Del Mar Fairgrounds are looking for the public's input on what's next for the site. Finally, we take a look into a natural wonder in the Loma Portal neighborhood.

    Lawsuit filed against El Cajon over controversial license plate surveillance program

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 18:16


    First, there are claims that El Cajon is violating state law in regards to its license plate surveillance program. Then, a new study out of UC San Diego found that virtual visits lead to fewer hospital readmissions following medical procedures. Next, the future of San Diego's largest community garden is at risk. Also, access to athletic fields near Jacumba Hot Springs has always been an issue, but changes are coming soon. Finally, another installment of POD behind the Package.

    Man who worked with US in Afghanistan speaks out after ICE detainment

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 9:26


    First, a man who worked alongside the U.S. in Afghanistan speaks out after he was detained by ICE this summer. Then, Chula Vista is using artificial intelligence to write police reports. Next, we take you behind-the-scenes of the new Navy Seal Museum and what it offers. Finally, an inclusive dance performance is taking place this weekend.

    City of San Diego will no longer go to court to force county to aid vulnerable people

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2025 15:02


    First, in our latest Why It Matters segment we discuss the controversial decision by the city to not force the county to aid vulnerable people. Then, a grant of 1 million dollars to fund a road safety project was revoked – it's part of a national trend. Next, our sci-tech reporter breaks down TMS and its impact on our brain. Finally, dozens of things across the county this month are free for kiddos, we break it down.

    The Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board has been given more power

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2025 14:15


    First, the San Diego City Council delayed voting on a series of increases to water and sewage rates in the city. The Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board or CLERB can now investigate healthcare providers in San Diego County jails. Then, we get reaction to an announcement made to almost every general, admiral and senior enlisted leader in the military. Then, we discuss how constant negative headlines in the news can ultimately affect our health. Finally, the Italian Film Festival kicks off its 19th year!

    San Diego sues recycling company over noise, air pollution allegations

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 9:01


    The city of San Diego is suing a recycling company following years of complaints about noise and air pollution. Longtime California legislator Toni Atkins dropped out of the 2026 Governor's race. Then, a scientist gives tips on how to stay safe from dust storms. Finally, we bring you the latest from the city of La Mesa, which has chipped away at plans to develop its city center.

    New analysis warns Colorado River could fall to dangerously low levels

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 12:13


    First, new analysis puts the Colorado River at risk. Then, for the first time ever a group of faculty at USD have a union contract. Next, we take you behind-the-scenes of FC's Right To Dream Academy in El Cajon. Finally, another installation of our new segment: The Pod behind the Package.

    SD Unified leaders reverse decision to remove middle school from Bethune K-8

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 14:51


    First, San Diego Unified leaders have reversed their initial decision to remove middle school grades from Bethune K-8. And we bring you a preview of the Miramar Air Show as well as the documentary Tura! Then, will a new movie coming to theaters be able to boost the local economy in San Diego? We'll also hear about a non-profit app that's helping to save lives. Lastly, we give you a few ideas on how to spend your weekend in the county!

    San Diego's unemployment rate is at its highest since 2021

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 12:59


    First, new data from the state of California shows San Diego's unemployment rate is the highest it's been in several years. Then, next week the San Diego City Council is set to vote on water rate increases, but the Council President is worried the council might not pass the rate hike. Finally, a preview of the 3rd annual Chula Vista Art Festival.

    Detox center downtown being called first of its kind

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 13:49


    First, a new detox center in downtown is being heralded as a first of its kind for the county. Next, a change.org petition having to do with the county's animal shelter has over 2,000 signatures. Then, a group of scientists are looking for solutions to the air quality problems at the Salton Sea. Finally, San Diego International Airport's new Terminal 1 is an unlikely art museum.

    Homeland Security looks to veterans to fill ICE hiring gap

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 13:58


    First, the Department of Homeland Security is looking to veterans to fill ICE jobs. Then, ADU's being turned into vacation rentals? Next, local comedians give their take on recent news like Jimmy Kimmel being taken off the air. Finally, Hispanic Heritage Month kicked off in the San Diego Community College District.

    Experts share concerns over ICE's recruitment strategy

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 15:55


    First, as ICE has a goal of hiring 10,000 agents by the end of year, we speak with experts who find serious issues with their recruitment strategy and imagery. Then, local pediatricians are raising concerns over new guidelines for the measles vaccine. Next, scientists at the Sanford Stem Cell Institute report their latest cancer research findings. Finally, we launch our new segment: The Pod behind the Package.

    New CA law requires health insurers to cover COVID-19 vaccines

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2025 14:27


    First, a new California law is now requiring health insurers to cover COVID-19 vaccinations. Then, dozens rallied downtown outside of the federal courthouse. Next, we tell you what goes into a wildfire prevention inspection. Finally, Fil-Am Creator Con sees huge growth in year two.

    Profane audio from top animal services official raises alarm

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 11:51


    First, our investigations team has obtained crude audio from a top official at the San Diego County Department of Animal Services. Former employees say it shows the official's attitude towards euthanizing dogs. Then, the contract for roughly 5,700 nurses at Sharp hospitals is up at the end of the month, we bring you the latest on negotiation efforts. Next, a San Diego man pleaded guilty after landing his plane twice illegally on San Clemente Island. Finally, San Diego County's largest school district will soon be making some major changes.

    Rivalry brews over money meant to clean up cross-border rivers

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2025 12:32


    Fifty million dollars in funding to clean cross-border rivers is facing road blocks.. Then, the National City planning commission votes to block a new biofuel depot. We tell you why. Next, the county has a plan for the nearly 100,000 people at risk of losing their federal food benefits. Finally, we bring you a story about Ramona's Nuevo Memory Gardens and their community watchdogs.

    Community reacts after school board member comes out as transgender

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 15:03


    First, a Republican school board member in North County has come out as transgender, we share how the community reacted. Then, the city of Oceanside is being sued over a controversial warehouse project. Finally, we get a behind-the-scenes preview of Huzzah!, a musical on the stage at The Old Globe.

    Protecting local residents from immigration enforcement

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 11:24


    First, elected officials are now considering new policies aimed to protect local residents from immigration enforcement. Next, a San Diego Navy doctor finds herself under investigation after details from her LinkedIn account were shared. Finally, pun definitely intended, we take a deeper dive into what goes into being a volunteer diver at Birch Aquarium.

    Fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk could be another in a trend of political violence

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 12:41


    We hear from Public Matters reporter Amita Sharma about the local connections to Charlie Kirk and the impact of his killing. Then, some San Diegans trying to get a COVID vaccine are running into obstacles. Plus, we have some weekend events to check out.

    New plan aims to protect coastline from sea rise

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 13:17


    First, we look at the city of San Diego's new action plan to address rising sea levels. Then, we bring you the story of a different type of neighborhood supermarket. Next, we discuss why San Diego's avocado production numbers are down. Finally, we breakdown tiered parking at the SD Zoo in our next Why It Matters segment.

    San Diego-based law firm sues ICE

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 11:30


    First, we tell you about a San Diego-based law firm that just filed a class-action suit against ICE over arrests in immigration court. Then, county supervisors just gave the green light to public health and economic impact studies in areas around the Tijuana River Valley. Next, the Veterans Affairs Secretary was in San Diego to tour the VA Medical Center and more. Finally, our Sci-Tech reporter takes a deeper look into the dangers of kids riding e-bikes.

    Paid parking coming to a Zoo near you

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2025 14:24


    The San Diego City Council voted to clear the way for paid parking at the San Diego Zoo. Then, a recent study found that over half of young adults look to online community groups for their local news –we breakdown why. Next, a state program that offers college kids scholarship money. Finally, we share what to expect at Politifest 2026.

    Two thirds of permits for housing are in walkable areas

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 7:56


    A majority of new housing across the San Diego County is being planned within the city's urban core, which is walkable. Also, we have advice from an infectious disease doctor on COVID vaccinations. Then, a gap between girls and boys in math test scores. Finally, we take you to the ribbon cutting of the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center.

    Pentagon considers plan to lease parts of Camp Pendleton

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 13:02


    The Pentagon is considering a plan that would lease parts of Camp Pendleton, we tell you why. Then, we hear from Will Rodriguez-Kennedy who is back as the head of the San Diego Democratic Party. And, a psychiatric hospital set for North County just lost a chunk of funding. Plus, just weeks before the new Terminal 1 opens at San Diego International, one airline is opting out.

    Studying viruses passed down by our ancestors

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 15:41


    First, the La Jolla Institute for Immunology is studying ghost viruses, which are passed down by our ancestors. Then, clean energy projects are getting a boost in funding and new election mailers are headed to your mailbox. Next, how the Carlsbad Theater owners are trying to save its legacy. Finally, we take a look at La Ópera de Tijuana which celebrates their 25 year anniversary.

    New federal funding restrictions could increase overdose deaths

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 12:59


    A new executive order limits how federal funding can be spent by programs that assist people who use drugs. Outreach workers believe the change could increase preventable overdoses. Then, an update on a project to turn a vacant lot in Chula Vista into dozens of affordable homes. Plus, we check in on how the Escondido library is doing at its new location – the North County mall.

    A new congressional map is going before voters this fall

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2025 13:28


    A new congressional map is going before voters this fall, we discuss what change that could bring to San Diego County. Then, a new program is teaching college students about AI and robotics in the construction industry. Next, reports show that veterans struggle financially as they transition out of service, we speak with one veteran about her experience. Finally, a local museum that's commemorating the Chicano moratorium. Lastly, Digital Gym Cinema kicks off its September series of film restorations.

    Researchers confirm pollution in the Tijuana river is also in the air

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 12:40


    First, for the first time researchers say they've confirmed pollution in the Tijuana River is also in the air being breathed in. Then, a lawsuit filed by conservative activists targets federal support for colleges supporting Latino students. Then we profile a man pursuing asylum in the U.S. Next, a device that could make nuclear fusion possible. Finally, it's Labor Day weekend in San Diego, we have a few ways to celebrate!

    How San Diego County is responding to federal budget cuts

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 11:31


    First, Voice of San Diego breaks down how Democrats on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors are trying to fill the budget gap caused by federal cuts. Then, calls are being made to Congress to pass a new law that would re-start Afghan refugee relocation. Then, city crews are cleaning up homeless encampments and offering relocation, but are they being taken up on that offer? Then, we look at what needs to be done to increase the use of one of the least popular trolley stations in San Diego. Finally, San Diego International Airport's Terminal 1 is nearly complete.

    People living at San Diego's camping sites for the homeless are suing

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 9:20


    Some people living in the city of San Diego's designated camping sites for the homeless are suing, we break down why. Then, we hear from the Secretary of the Navy who is in San Diego this week. Plus, amid economic and political turmoil, do San Diegans still have hope?

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