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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    • Jun 2, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 15m AVG DURATION
    • 1,514 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from San Diego News Matters

    New CalFresh federal work requirements go into effect

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 12:57


    First, we spoke with a local organization prepping for the impacts of new CalFresh federal work requirements. Then, a collapsed pipeline in Tijuana is causing an increase in odors for those who live nearby. Also, with more than 800,000 dogs in the county, we breakdown the cost of caring for one. Also, we check in with the city's poet laureate who is nearly halfway through her term. And, can our resident Cinema Junkie interest you in a weeklong film series?

    New CalFresh federal work requirements go into effect

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 12:57


    First, we spoke with a local organization prepping for the impacts of new CalFresh federal work requirements. Then, a collapsed pipeline in Tijuana is causing an increase in odors for those who live nearby. Also, with more than 800,000 dogs in the county, we breakdown the cost of caring for one. Also, we check in with the city's poet laureate who is nearly halfway through her term. And, can our resident Cinema Junkie interest you in a weeklong film series?

    We spoke with candidates vying for the 48th Congressional District seat

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 15:40


    First, we spoke with a handful of candidates from opposite sides of the aisle who are running in the 48th Congressional District race. Also, we'll tell you why some UCSD faculty are calling for a return of standardized testing. Next, food banks are bracing for an uptick in demand as stricter federal food assistance rules go into effect today. Then, we spoke with a local author who is releasing a book on Punjabi history and traditions in the U.S. And, one local independent book store may be forced to relocate after multiple rent hikes.

    New county survey looks to measure economic impact of Tijuana River sewage crisis

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2026 16:27


    First, the county wants you to take part in their new survey on the economic impacts of the Tijuana River sewage crisis. And, a new county-backed effort looks to save taxpayer dollars without having to cut back on services. Next, we'll bring you one story from parents who want to scale back on screen time and another perspective from someone who says AI is making her better at her job. Then, some weekend events ideas taking place across the county.

    Did California gun laws limit the impact of last week's Islamic Center attack?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2026 9:57


    First, what part did California gun laws play in the Islamic Center of San Diego shooting? Then, one week post-tragedy, hundreds gathered for prayer services on the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Adha. Also, one of the nation's oldest environment groups has joined the fight over a local data center. Next, the city of San Diego's budget is now in the hands of the City Council. Plus, a look at a gaming expo coming up this weekend.

    County asks for input on proposed $9 billion budget

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2026 11:17


    First, we'll tell you how the county's $9 billion dollar recommended budget addresses federal funding cuts. Then, the Bonita Museum and Cultural Center has a fresh new look. Next, we'll tell you why Iran's World Cup training base has been moved to Mexico. Also, our resident Cinema Junkie reviews Boots Riley's new film.

    One North County race could shift the balance of power on the Board of Supervisors

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2026 11:50


    First, with the primary one week away, we'll tell you about the race to represent North County on the board of supervisors. Then, we'll tell you how reduced trash fees came to be. And,one local professor is teaching her students about the Tijuana sewage crisis. And, San Diego's mobile crisis response teams are set to lose their funding.

    Three victims in Islamic Center shooting remembered

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2026 18:47


    First, KPBS attended the memorial for the victims of Monday's Islamic Center attack. Then, the state's revised budget would cut Medi-Cal for refugees and asylum seekers. , And, we spoke with an election expert about the campaign websites of some of the candidates running to represent the 48th Congressional District. Also, we'll tell you about the legacy that one San Diego Civil Rights leader is leaving behind. Plus, some weekend event ideas

    A conversation on how to navigate emotional trauma following a tragic event

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2026 18:32


    First, a conversation around navigating emotional trauma days after a tragedy occurs. Then, Governor Gavin Newsom included something in his revised May budget that local council members have been inquiring about since January. Also, how should you talk to children about Monday's deadly Islamic Center shooting? Plus, the latest news surrounding the San Diego Velodrome. And, how new border wall construction near Tecate is causing international controversy.

    More details emerge from shooting at Islamic Center of San Diego

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 9:32


    First, new details have been released surrounding a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego. Then, we'll bring you a story about how Monday's mosque attack adds to a familiar pattern in right-wing extremism. Next, community leaders are gathering to mourn their losses. And, California lawmakers are reviewing if a local detention facility should be qualifying for special property tax breaks. Also, why one local bike co-op will not be participating in the upcoming Bike Anywhere Day.

    Police investigate Islamic Center shooting as hate-crime as community mourns

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2026 13:05


    First, we bring you the latest details around a shooting at a local mosque that involved hate rhetoric. Then, we bring you a story explaining how traditional ad formats such as mailers can be used in deceptive ways. Also, in part two of an investigation that looked into who owns a local immigration detention facility, we learn that what actually counts as a charity widely varies across California. And, we'll tell you how a local hotline is helping people dispose of waste without it ending up in a landfill.

    A deeper look into who owns the Imperial Valley immigration detention facility

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026 17:07


    First, we take a look into who owns the ICE detention center in Calexico. Then, we'll tell you how one organization in El Cajon has been helping refugees. Also, an update on the most-recent Affordable Housing Needs Report. And, as proposed budgets come in from the local and state-level, you too can try your hand at closing the city of San Diego's deficit with our new interactive Budget Game.

    El Cajon's refugee community remains vibrant despite current immigration policy

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2026 15:30


    First, we spoke with some members of El Cajon's refugee community about their experience during the Trump administration era. Also, a bill was recently introduced with a goal of ending the war with Iran. Next, one Republican candidate is showing some lasting power in a Democratic-heavy race for Governor. Then, a new library just broke ground in the county. And, some weekend event ideas for you and yours.

    New draft budget restores some funding for rec centers and libraries

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2026 8:24


    First, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria shared a revised draft budget, which restores some funding but still cuts funding for arts and culture. Then, La Mesa is the latest city in the county with a new ordinance targeting e-bike ridership. Also, the latest on federal funding for childcare in California.

    San Pasqual Academy's fate will be decided by county leaders

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2026 10:35


    First, the fate of a residential campus for foster youth will come down to a vote by San Diego County leaders. Then, one North County city added a new ordinance regarding illegal fireworks with less than two months until the July 4th holiday. Also, we discuss changes in leadership and other key issues at San Diego County's Department of Animal Services over the last year. And, a Barrio Logan icon is once again opening their doors for business.

    As part of our ‘Price of San Diego' series we look into homeowners insurance

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2026 13:21


    First, we looked into some of the ways that you could try to find a fair deal on homeowners insurance. Then, supporters of a county sales tax increase say they have enough signatures but are unclear on where exactly the money would go. Also, following complaints from residents, the city has now presented updates to its street improvement plan. Plus, scientists and musicians at UC San Diego are collaborating on a unique composition. And to close out today's pod, we remember a late icon of the San Diego Civil Rights Movement.

    Canvas college hack frustrates finals studies

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 13:16


    Students react to last week's cyber attack on the education platform Canvas. Then, immigration officials say they deported almost two dozen cruise ship crewmembers arrested last week over allegations of child sexual exploitation – although no one was charged. And, could fare gates be coming to San Diego trolley stations? Also a report on a bicycle safety course that's part of one local elementary school's PE program. Finally, La Mesa memorializes a police officer killed last year in the line of duty.

    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.

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