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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    • Sep 8, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 16m AVG DURATION
    • 1,330 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from San Diego News Matters

    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?

    Complaint filed against SDPD Chief

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 11:39


    A complaint against SDPD Chief Scott Wahl has been filed with the State Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, or POST. Then, a county supervisor is calling for major changes to be made regarding detention facilities in the county. Next, a draft update to the Clairemont Community Plan will now see the neighborhood rezoned, we will bring you those details. Finally, a tribute to the animals that recently died at the San Diego Zoo.

    Communities respond to ICE arrests near San Diego schools

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2025 15:59


    The Metropolitan Transit System is asking the public for help in prioritizing spending as it faces a looming budget deficit. Then, border and immigration reporter Gustavo Solis checks in to talk about the impact of ICE arrests near schools. And, part two of our story on the challenges faced by Afghans four years after the fall of Kabul. Plus, why some North County residents are disappointed that a new housing development was approved. Finally, a settlement between the city and the owners of the derelict California Theater — sell it or tear it down.

    Aggressive immigration enforcement is impacting youth mental health

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2025 16:02


    First, a new report from UC Riverside warns that aggressive immigration enforcement is taking a serious toll on children's mental health. Then, we hear from San Diego County Supervisor Paloma Aguirre about new signs in the Tijuana River Valley that warn the public to avoid areas where toxic gases have been detected. Plus, a preview of Filmout, San Diego's LGBTQ+ film festival, happening this weekend.

    Another immigration arrest near a San Diego County school

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 12:59


    First, we bring you details on the latest ICE arrest near a San Diego County school. Next, San Diego is building numerous new homes, but our reports found many are popping up near freeways. Then, we hear from the parents of an Encinitas teen who was killed while crossing the street and the change they'd like to see happen. Finally, we catch up with Ziggy Marley who will be headlining the KPBS San Diego Book Festival.

    Teachers trained on protecting students from immigration enforcement

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2025 14:18


    First, with multiple ICE arrests taking place near San Diego schools, Union del Barrio is training teachers on how to protect students from potential immigration enforcement. Then, we spoke with a California lawmaker looking to crack down on microplastics. Next, we discuss price increases with the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce president. Finally, a new mental health tactic originating in the UK is now being applied in San Diego.

    El Cajon police chief disagrees with attorney general over sanctuary law

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2025 7:49


    First, the El Cajon police chief and the state Attorney General disagree on the state's immigrant sanctuary law. Next, over 4,000 San Diego teens made calls to the teen mental health line. We hear more about the resource. Finally, a transitional housing facility for foster youths marks a first for North County.

    New housing development on horizon for South Bay

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2025 8:51


    First, another San Diego parent has been detained by ICE near a school. Then, a new housing development being built near a South Bay trolley station gets approval, while planning is underway for new homes near San Diego State University. Finally, adult sports leagues in San Diego get hit with a price spike

    Governor Newsom moves forward with redistricting effort

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 10:42


    First, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced plans for a Nov. 4 special election to ask voters to approve of redistricting in the state. Then, the Encinitas City Council moves forward with two homeless-related proposals. Plus, we get a sneak preview of the latest world premiere musical at the La Jolla Playhouse.

    How has immigration increased tension in El Cajon?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 13:56


    El Cajon is one of just two cities in California fighting state immigrant sanctuary laws. This year the city council passed resolutions supporting President Trump's deportation campaign. Then, the days of RV's parking in Mission Bay long term may be numbered. And, clean air vehicle stickers are set to soon expire, but a proposal could change that. Finally, we take a look into how the rise of AI has also brought with it numerous copyright lawsuits.

    Toni Atkins faces potential conflicts of interest in run for Governor

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 8:03


    Chula Vista's mayor is seeking an agreement with Caltrans to clear encampments along the freeways in his city. Then, Toni Atkins is now running for Governor, but faces potential conflicts of interest. Next, a new way for Southeastern San Diego residents to get to medical appointments, the grocery store and more. Finally, we discuss agape and its role in our society as we present another installment of our civic values series.

    San Diego Unified welcomes students

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 12:54


    Thousands of students in San Diego Unified are back in their classrooms this week. Then, we take a closer look at the Trump administration's plans for Afghan allies who've fled due to Taliban rule. Then, SDG&E reminds us to call 811 before digging and explains why. Finally, an all-female production of Shakespeare's work that's taking place in our county and where to watch.

    Sexual misconduct lawsuit against Nathan Fletcher thrown out

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 13:18


    On Friday, a San Diego County Superior Court judge threw out a sexual misconduct lawsuit filed against former county supervisor Nathan Fletcher. Plus, we profile a barber in Vista that provides haircuts and healing to his community. Then, in our next installment about civic values we take a look at ethics and its current place in our society.

    The controversy around choosing Imperial Beach's new mayor

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 11:48


    First, a look into why there's some controversy surrounding the quick appointment of Imperial Beach's new mayor. Plus, another look into seniors' vulnerability to scams and how to best avoid them. Then, our latest civic values installment discusses authenticity and its role in politics.

    Immigration agents arrest parent near Chula Vista school

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 12:13


    Chula Vista Councilmember Michael Inzunza said police told him immigration agents arrested the parent a block away from Camarena Elementary School, and that two children were in the car at the time of the arrest. Then, a San Diego-based ministry is accompanying migrants and asylum seekers to their court hearings. Plus, new research shows the impact of immigration arrests on the California's workforce.

    San Diego County again on federal list of sanctuary jurisdictions

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 11:05


    San Diego County and the state of California are on a new justice department list of “sanctuary jurisdictions.” The DOJ says these jurisdictions have policies, laws or regulations that interfere with federal immigration enforcement. Then, we debut a new series on civic values. Plus, we discuss the latest in on-demand military 3D-print manufacturing. Finally, how some mail-order medications may be a risk during this week's warm weather.

    Parking meter prices increase near Petco Park

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 11:55


    First, parking meter prices are going up around Petco Park during special events, including Padres games. There will soon be parking meters surrounding Balboa Park, we tell you what those funds will fix. Last, why Oceanside received top-ranks for seniors and retirees.

    A new affordable housing community coming to San Diego

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 10:48


    First, 200 Affordable Housing units land in Mission Valley. Plus, why the Marine Corps has now changed its relationship with an Oceanside credit-union. Then, in conversation with Voice Of San Diego we take a deeper dive into the major factors impacting the housing crisis in San Diego.

    How Two brothers delivering groceries evolved into a community center

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 8:27


    First, we take a deeper look into UC San Diego's plan for growth after a record-setting number of admissions were offered. Then, two brothers from North County with a mutual goal blossomed into an entire community center. Plus, Imperial Beach gets its first community-owned grocery store.

    A San Diego park soccer program supporting refugees and immigrant youth?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 15:15


    First, why El Cajon Police will no longer respond to all mental-health crisis calls. Plus, Imperial Valley's oldest LGTQ+ center is in turmoil. Then, some changes are being made to San Diego grocery store's coupon system, making it more user-friendly and inclusive to seniors.

    What happens when immigration detention in San Diego reaches max capacity?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 14:51


    First, the Otay Mesa Immigration Detention Center is at full capacity. What happens now? Then, we bring you part three of our housing series showing where new buildings are going up in San Diego and why. Plus, California Attorney General Rob Bonta Sues Trump Administration.

    Where new homes are being built

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 9:46


    A new analysis finds housing construction is on the rise, but the construction of new homes is not being distributed equally across San Diego's cities. Plus, the latest on paid parking in Balboa Park. Then, financial scams targeting seniors in San Diego County.

    Housing reforms are starting to pay off

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 10:14


    San Diego has adopted a host of reforms over the past decade meant to increase the housing supply and they're starting to show results. Then, a new report is out that tracks the number of whales getting entangled in fishing lines. Plus, cleaning up after Comic-Con takes true teamwork.

    Another comic and arts convention the same weekend as Comic-Con?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 11:18


    San Diego Comic-Con brings huge crowds and exclusive content releases with it, we discuss some of our favorite announcements from Day 1! Plus, how teachers and librarians are using comics to teach. Then, a look into some federal funds that were just released benefiting San Diego County schools. Also, we introduce you to an alternative type of comic and arts convention also happening this weekend.

    Could a donation at Comic-Con make you a real-life superhero?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 13:15


    Nascar is coming to San Diego for Father's Day weekend in 2026. Plus, the days of free parking in Balboa are numbered. We have the proposed cost breakdown. Then, part 2 of our KPBS investigation that looks into an uptick in euthanasias at San Diego County shelters. Finally, a look at ComicCon Preview Day & Blood Drive.

    San Diego City Council holds final vote on ADU rules

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 13:08


    If you're heading to Comic-Con transit could be a good option to get there. Plus, a KPBS investigation digs deeper into an uptick in the euthanasia rate at San Diego County-run animal shelters. We also look into a five-day forecast - for pollution. Then, some tips from our arts reporter on how you might be able to see George Lucas up close at Comic-Con.

    Unpacking the economic impact of Comic-Con on San Diego

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 12:29


    We break down the impact of Comic-Con on San Diego's economy and discuss potential safety risks associated with major events. Plus, a new turf soccer field in City Heights will serve students as well as adults. Then, Beth Accomando walks us through the history and significance of the so-called, “Oscars of the comics industry.”

    How California stepped up to fund a crisis hotline

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 7:02


    California will keep the Trevor Project's LGBTQ+ crisis line running after federal funding was cut. Then, a new inclusive program that's offering free legal services to LGBTQ+ Mexicans. Plus, we speak to KPBS General Manager Deanna Mackey about the impact federal cuts will have on KPBS.

    How some San Diegans are speaking out against the Trump Administration

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2025 13:45


    Protests were held across the country Thursday honoring the late John Lewis's legacy and pushing back against the current administration. Then, imagine growing up in America, going to school and starting a career to find out unexpectedly that you aren't considered an American citizen. Plus, San Diego News Now has a new host and producer.

    How a settlement could keep water rates from increasing

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 11:58


    The settlement will save millions in legal fees and will pave the way for San Diego to sell some of the expensive water it has secured over the last 30 years. Then, patients with early onset Alzheimer's don't qualify for Medicare right away and that's causing an expensive dilemma. Plus, a local nonprofit is putting a focus on women veterans.

    Summer meal program is feeding 11,000 kids a day

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 11:21


    The San Diego Unified School District is seeing a big increase in demand for food in it's summer meal program. Then, National City officials are considering approval of a major new fuel depot on the city's west side. Plus, it's officially Pride month in the city of San Diego.

    San Diego County schools waiting on $50 million from federal government

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 6:46


    California and more than 20 other states sued the Trump administration Monday for withholding federal education funds. Then, there's a new effort to increase the number of homeless shelter beds in North and East San Diego County. Plus, the San Diego City Council votes to redevelop the City Operations Building.

    What are San Diego Police officers doing at ICE raids?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 10:58


    State law bars local law enforcement agencies from participating in immigration enforcement, so what role does the SDPD play during raids? And, Health and Human Services says federal money can't be used to provide services to undocumented people. Then, a look at the latest in cannabis science, happening at UC San Diego. Finally, a local Navy veteran who played an important part in history, dies.

    Is the U.S. sliding toward authoritarianism?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 12:49


    We continue our conversations this week on the health of American democracy. Also, more on how ongoing Tijuana River pollution is affecting residents. Then, hear from a local legal analyst on President Trump's effort to end birthright citizenship. And, SANDAG commissioners get an earful on their transportation plans. Finally, Escondido has a multi-million dollar budget surplus — so why are people concerned for the city's long-term fiscal health?

    Immigration court observer says ICE detained her for hours

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 13:36


    Hear from the 71-year-old San Diego immigration court watcher who says she was handcuffed and detained after an ICE agent accused her of assault. Then, will the county allow a neighborhood golf course to be converted into a sand mine? Also, in part two of our interview, hear what it is about the U.S. that keeps the author of “How Civil Wars Start: And How to Stop Them,” up at night. And, Voice of San Diego's education reporter Jakob McWhinney is back to talk about the impact of declining public school enrollment. Finally, what are the long-term consequences of last year's South Bay battery fire?

    Feds withhold millions from San Diego schools

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 13:41


    Devastating floods in Texas are raising questions about San Diego's preparedness for weather disasters. Then, the Department of Education is withholding millions in grants local schools are counting on for things like summer programs. And, just how bad are our political divisions? Hear from the author of the book “How Civil Wars Start: And How to Stop Them.” Also, why is Carlsbad canceling traffic circles? And, San Diego isn't the only city getting out of the residential trash subsidy business. Find out who else can expect higher collection fees. Finally, our review of the new Superman movie.

    Will controversy dampen San Diego Pride this year?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 13:22


    After some sponsors pulled out over a headlining artist's comments about the war in Gaza, San Diego Pride's executive director discusses what effect the controversy is having. And, a local pediatrician says she's concerned about the impact federal cuts might have on children. Also, a look at how the fear of raids affects communities. Then, Voice of San Diego's Will Huntsberry joins us to talk about why El Cajon lags behind other cities in home construction. Finally, a UC San Diego researcher talks about what they found studying lung cancer among non-smokers.

    Thousands in San Diego to be booted from Medicaid

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 11:53


    President Trump's new tax bill will kick millions off Medicaid nationwide. Here locally, one congressman says in his district 25,000 people could lose their health insurance. And, more on the new proposal to convert 101 Ash Street into affordable housing. Then, UCSD health workers respond to layoffs. Also, why the flags honoring veterans at Miramar National Cemetery are threatened and what can be done about it. Finally, we explore nature and history in one Escondido park.

    Democrats retake control of county board of supervisors

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 12:32


    Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre will break the current partisan tie at the county — hear from one political analyst about what that means. Then, Voice of San Diego CEO Scott Lewis again joins us with his take on the District 1 election. Also, find out why area beaches are subject to closure. And, from reporting partner inewsource, hear about a new affordable housing project in the heart of Chula Vista. Finally, we've got a feature story on the 100th birthday of the oldest roller coaster in the county.

    Key county decisions hinge on South Bay election

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2025 14:32


    The tie-breaking vote on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors is up for grabs by the winner of the District 1 race. And, hear from an Afghan man in San Diego who says his father, who worked with the U.S. during the war, has been left behind in Afghanistan. Then, how California's new environmental regulatory rollback will affect housing construction. Also, a San Diego political scientist says he has a roadmap for how you can affect change. Finally, carpool lanes on Interstate 805 in the South Bay will let you ride solo — for a price.

    Veterans helping Afghan asylum seekers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 11:04


    Hundreds of veterans are volunteering to attend immigration hearings with Afghan asylum-seekers. Then, we hear contributing New York Times opinion writer Jean Guerrero's analysis on the impact of President Donald Trump's mass deportation efforts. Plus, Southwestern College is honoring the disabled community by flying the Disability Pride Flag.

    Fact-checking District 1 candidates' claims

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 11:44


    The candidates for county supervisor in District 1 are slinging accusations back and forth — what's true and what isn't? And, UC San Diego Health laid off hundreds. Find out how many and why. Then, ICE detained the U.S. citizen-children during a raid in search of their father. Hear what one of them is saying about it. Also, a new federal report reveals possible causes of the Oceanside pier fire. Finally, an update on a funding fight for the water garden at Cuyamaca College.

    Rents in San Diego rise slower where more homes are permitted

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 12:16


    New data shows rents rise slower in areas of San Diego where more homes are permitted. Then, the city of San Diego is considering increasing the minimum wage for hospitality workers. Also, we evaluate some of the claims made by candidates in the San Diego County District 1 election. Finally, local researchers say more baby boomers are consuming cannabis

    New study shows access to Medicaid lowered risk of death for low-income adults

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 12:13


    A nationwide study shows how access to Medicaid saved lives. Then, business leaders are voicing their opposition to a proposal to raise the minimum wage to $25 an hour in the city of San Diego. , Plus, federal funding cuts threaten a local school district's program that provides resources to families of children with behavioral challenges.

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