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 16, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 15m AVG DURATION
    • 1,588 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from San Diego News Matters

    UC San Diego study shows declining trust in elections across party lines

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2026 13:02


    First, reporter Jake Gotta looks into why trust in elections is declining. Then, migrants being detained for longer than they should be is now on the radar of a federal judge. Next, we'll tell you the financial impact cross-border pollution is having on the region. And, an update on 101 Ash Street.

    District Attorney: No charges for officer who fatally shot 16-year-old

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2026 12:21


    First, the DA's office will not charge the officer involved in the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old. Then, concerns over regulations to Artificial Intelligence are sparking a national debate. Also, the San Diego City Council is looking to slow down on just how many autonomous vehicles are on our roads. And, cruise season is beginning in America's Finest city.

    How contaminated is the Tijuana River? San Diego Coastkeeper researchers have answers

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2026 16:14


    First, researchers have gathered enough information to put figures behind contamination levels at the Tijuana River. Also, the county just launched its largest public works project ever: solving the Tijuana River sewage crisis. Then, La Mesa City Council appointed a new interim city treasurer. And, get to know KPBS's new Science & Technology reporter.

    Dozens gather for peaceful demonstration against ICE arrest of City College student

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2026 12:43


    First, dozens gathered downtown as a form of peaceful protest to a recent ICE arrest. Then, a new study shows how even the slightest changes in our breathing can impact our brain's activity. Also, we spoke with some locals about the owner of a market in Logan Heights after his passing. And, we share some events happening across the county this weekend.

    San Diego City College students host rally denouncing ICE arrest of a Haitian student

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2026 13:41


    First, an update on the ICE arrest near San Diego City College. Also, next summer La Mesa plans to host its first ever Pride event. Then, what impact does this extreme heat have on our power grid? And, San Diego City College is working to support its students that are parents.

    How does an engineered material arresting system impact aviation safety?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2026 10:41


    First, following another fatal plane crash over the weekend, we check in how things might have gone differently at San Diego International. Then, the extreme heat warning continues across the county. Also, student homelessness is on the rise across California. And, some local agencies are gathering to defend the Head Start program.

    Family of Islamic Center shooter sues mental health facility

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2026 15:56


    The family of one of the shooters in the Islamic Center attack is now suing a mental health facility for negligence and wrongful death. Plus, what a looming El Niño could mean for San Diego County. And, how an Environmental Protection Agency announcement is renewing hope for Imperial County residents plagued by river pollution.

    How much money is the city leaving on the table by keeping beach parking free?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2026 11:25


    First, we looked into how much money the City of San Diego could be leaving on the table by keeping parking free at beaches. Next, members of San Diego's Black Panther Party gathered to celebrate the life of one of their founding members. Then, former staff at a local art institution tell us there's more to the story than funding cuts.

    San Diego law students are clearing the way for formerly incarcerated people to practice law

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2026 14:57


    First, we'll tell you how a group of law students are helping pave the way for formerly incarcerated people to practice law. Then, an Imperial County judge is planning to block plans for an expansive data center. Also, a new virtual tour lets you explore La Jolla's underwater park from the comfort of your home. And, a preview of the inaugural Anime San Diego Convention.

    NC teen indicted for filming Mosque attack charges considered “new” as far as far-right extremism

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2026 13:45


    First, new details are emerging around May's attack on the Islamic Center of San Diego. Also, San Diego County could start treating Mexican sewage that spills into the Tijuana River. Then, a bill to regulate how human remains are disposed might just be crucial to the future of the Midway Rising project. And, a new state law passed despite warnings of racial bias.

    An update on May's Islamic Center of San Diego attack

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2026 12:58


    First, an update surrounding the Islamic Center of San Diego attack from this past May. Next, a new study explores what happens when some teens take a break from their cellphones. Then, we'll tell you about a new cafe led by a group of women that just opened in Normal Heights. And, we'll tell you about a type of book that helps parents teach their kids to read.

    ICE arrests hit record number in Trump's second term

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2026 20:14


    First, ICE arrests hit a record number in July, both on a national level and here locally. Then, more than a year after it was first signed into law, we take a look into the impact of the Laken Riley Act. Next, abuse allegations against the county's juvenile institutions are beginning to pile up. Also, members of the San Diego based USS Theodore Roosevelt are being told to plan for a longer deployment.

    An assembly bill looks to help trans people forced out of the military

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2026 13:42


    First, an assembly bill is looking to help trans people forced out of the military. Then, funding is almost out for a program using deep ocean robots to monitor climate change and marine health. Next, as police departments increasingly use drones in their police work, so does the scrutiny around them. And, some weekend events that you and yours can take part in.

    New reporting reveals Balboa Park needs nearly $1 billion for repairs

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2026 11:56


    First, an interview with the investigative journalist who unveiled that Balboa Park needs roughly $1 billion in repairs. Also, San Diego Unified has some safety rules in place to help keep kids cool and safe. Then, SDG&E is getting input on a new transmission line. And, the federal government announced cuts for California and others that rely on water coming from the Colorado River.

    We look into the potential impact of the Supreme Court's ruling on mail-in ballots

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2026 12:26


    First, with Californians overwhelmingly utilizing vote by mail, we take a look into the potential impact of the Supreme Court's decision on Trump's executive order restricting mail-in voting. Then, when will San Diego County get some relief from this heat? Also, the impact of Colorado River cuts on San Diego County. And, what's going on with the recent food safety scares. Plus, auditors say the city of San Diego could be making more money on its golf courses.

    Brace yourself for heat all this week

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2026 15:38


    First, a week full of heat has millions across the county looking for some relief. Also, city council members have voted to do away with a measure that allowed for taller buildings in the Midway District. Next, could new military grooming standards disproportionately impact Black men? And, we hear from the new owners of your San Diego Padres.

    All Middle Eastern and North African community members are counted as white on the U.S. census

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2026 14:31


    First, an organization in El Cajon is asking for more accurate representation for nearly 25,000 of its local residents. Then, a resident in Emerald Hills has now filed a lawsuit against the city of San Diego over a housing development coming to his neighborhood. Also, some local advocates feel the lack of safe places to ride an e-bike is a central issue when it comes to safety. And, join us for a sneak peak of a driverless robotaxi ride.

    MLB's official approval of Padres sale also brings some inherited issues

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2026 11:07


    First, Major League Baseball has officially approved the sale of the Padres but it comes with some inherited issues for the new ownership group. Then, an ongoing clash over the use of a county-owned firing range. Also, an update on a controversial arrest dating back to 2024. Next, what keeps one local breakdancer going. And, we share some weekend events happening across the county.

    EPA promises to bring urgency to New River crisis

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2026 13:49


    First, the EPA was in Imperial County to meet with the public over the New River crisis. They say they'll bring the same urgency to the New River crisis, as the Tijuana River crisis. Then, a campaign to teach patients and families about hospice care. And, a new website to help find child care. The San Diego County Board of Supervisors is moving forward with anti-corruption measures. Plus, The Midnight Pine is playing its last show.

    ICE is no longer permitted to utilize two county firing ranges

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2026 9:32


    First, ICE can no longer utilize two county firing ranges for training exercises. Then, ICE agents have arrested a minor league coach for the Padres. Next, more roadway construction is underway at San Diego International Airport. Also, San Diego is bracing itself for what could be a historic El Nino season. And, we preview an outdoor production of Shakespeare.

    County Supervisors to decide whether ICE agents can continue using two county firing ranges for training

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2026 13:24


    First, county supervisors are set to decide today whether federal immigration authorities can continue using two county firing ranges for their training. Then, a man has been charged with intentionally starting the Sorrento wildfire. Next, some updates on the upcoming election. And, a conversation with an advocate about automated license plate readers. Plus, the fan experience at a professional baseball game in Tijuana.

    Democrats demand accountability in carrier controversy

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2026 15:45


    Hear the latest on the San Diego aircraft carrier that has Defense officials on the defensive. Also, what does Donald Trump's grudge against magnets have to do with a $15 billion warship? After a teen pleads guilty to kicking a La Jolla sea lion, will others get the message to leave the animals alone? Then, how the Trump administration has left migrant children without attorneys for immigration court. And education reporter Katie Anastas introduces us to the Imperial Valley student making it easier for her classmates to take the SAT test. Also hear about liberation through deep listening with one local collective that's using vinyl as a starting point. Voice of San Diego's Scott Lewis returns with another Why it Matters story — this time about a long-running conflict between a developer and the city of Del Mar that some want to end with criminal charges. Finally, way beyond “yes, and …” a convention starting Thursday is all about improv — arts reporter Beth Accomando has a preview.

    As the window to locate survivors dwindles, local Colombians are stepping up

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2026 16:42


    First, local Colombians are stepping up to provide aid after a devastating earthquake ravaged their home country. Then, we'll tell you why Hillel of San Diego is creating a new fund for its students. Next, applications are still being accepted for the county's rental subsidy program aimed at seniors. Also, we speak with a local tarot card reader. And, Pod Behind the Package returns with an interview featuring our new reporter.

    What we know from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy's San Diego visit

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2026 14:46


    First, we'll tell you what's new in Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy's approach to treating homelessness and addiction. Then, a homeless women's shelter program is expanding the number of people it can help. Next, bathrooms are back open in Mission Bay as of this upcoming Friday. And, some students in Vista are now returning to a new school.

    Hundreds of thousands of California ride-share drivers could soon form a union

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2026 14:50


    First, some California ride-share drivers have reservations about unionizing. Next, a new battery storage facility is now open in Poway. Then, some Southeast San Diegans want to reclaim land that was once planned for a freeway. And, the Grossmont Union High School district board voted to boost athletic funding.

    San Diego students across the county are heading back to school

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2026 13:23


    First, leaders in the San Diego Unified School District tell KPBS what they'd like to see more of. Then, we'll tell you how public hearings this week could determine the future of oil production off the coast of California. Next, intervenors have now set their sights on taking on SDG&E's climbing utility rates. And, a UCSD researcher is the a recipient of one America's oldest science prizes.

    Rebate aims to make EVs more affordable

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2026 14:10


    First, we'll tell you how much first-time buyers of an electric vehicle in California could save. Then, we'll tell you what's new in San Diego Unified School District's preschool program. Also, a conversation with the investigative reporters behind a story about wage theft at elderly care homes. And, thousands of fans last week came out to support San Diego's former football team.

    The county has now confirmed a fourth human case of West Nile virus

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2026 13:33


    First, even with a fourth human case of West Nile virus confirmed, experts say peak mosquito season is still ahead. Next, we'll tell you what some local community activists are rallying to support. Also, a new report shows there is a lot of progress to be made on the promises to Afghan allies. Then, the San Diego Natural History Museum has a new curator. And, some weekend event ideas for you and yours.

    After two viral incidents at Sunset Cliff, SD Police are upping enforcement

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2026 14:07


    First, we'll tell you why there is increased police presence at Sunset Cliffs. Next, a lawsuit has been filed against the city claiming racial and age discrimination. Also, Santee has now hired its first director of safety and security. Then, we'll tell you why returning the remains of native ancestors is being held up. And, a new offering from La Jolla Playhouse is part clown & part social experiment.

    California Democrats are divided on a ballot measure to tax billionaires

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2026 11:11


    First, we'll tell you why California democrats are divided on a ballot proposition to tax their state's billionaires. Then, hundreds of people experiencing homelessness got free check-ups recently in Escondido. Meanwhile, also in Escondido some residents are raising concerns over a housing development's proximity to a hazardous waste cleanup site. And, for the second time in three years, Tijuana's team will represent Mexico in the Little League World Series.

    The cost of extreme heat for San Diegans

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2026 13:51


    We take a look at the rising costs of extreme heat, from finances to health. Then, a new bill could remove one hurdle for projects like Midway Rising. Plus, why several cities in Imperial County are pushing back on data centers. Then, we take a look at a North County company working to make fusion energy a reality. And, the San Diego Humane Society makes it easier to adopt dogs in August. Then, the return of the beloved homegrown franchise, the “Killer Tomatoes”.

    Tens of thousands ordered deported after missing rescheduled hearings

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2026 6:43


    More than 50,000 people were ordered deported after missing so-called “mega master” immigration hearings — court appearances rescheduled on short notice. And we look at the latest research on chronic traumatic encephalopathy after the death of former Chargers linebacker Billy Ray Smith. Finally, come with us to visit San Diego's first women's sports bar.

    What's new in the city's expanded effort to clear up encampments along freeways

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2026 13:18


    First, the city has renewed their contract with Caltrans. Then, as the summer temps climb, so are COVID-19 cases in the county. Next, new murals have popped up that honor African American and Chicano music legends. Also, some weekend events happening around the county that you and yours can take part in.

    Why did the USS Fort Worth only serve half of its lifespan?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2026 11:42


    First, we'll tell you why the USS Fort Worth had its lifespan cut short. Then, the local impact of Hurricane Genevieve means dangerously high surf levels. Next, we look into the future of the Downtown La Mesa Trolley Station. And we hear from students from tribal bands and nations who attended arts and culture workshops last week. Plus, we speak to researchers who found a glitch in an anti-theft system on some cars.

    New polling shows race for 48th congressional seat is tight

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2026 14:46


    First, new data suggests the race to replace Darrell Issa in the 48th congressional seat is quite competitive. Then, we'll tell you about two new lawsuits -- one against the state and one against the Trump administration. Also, San Diego's mayor and a city councilman disagree on reopening public restrooms in Mission Bay Park. And, how a bridge in San Ysidro is more than a bridge.

    We dug into the origins of San Diego's upzoning

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2026 12:45


    First, we took a look into the history of suburban sprawl in San Diego. Then, after years of delays, a new spinal cord injury center is expected to open early next year. Also, we'll tell you what goes into the madness that is cleaning up after Comic-Con. And, one woman is on a mission to preserve San Diego's Black skating culture.

    A lesson in South County politics

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2026 9:14


    First, why did some Chula Vista residents show up to oppose a voter initiative? Also, a heat advisory is in effect until 8 p.m. Then, we'll tell you how one local teen with a rare form of epilepsy is reaching milestones even his family didn't think possible. And, a unique collaboration between two illustrators at Comic-Con blends Filipino culture with comic-inspired artwork.

    Comic-Con 2026 by the numbers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2026 11:26


    First, we look over some data to determine both the personal cost and regional economic impact of Comic-Con. Then, a congressman says a detention center policy is getting in the way of his ability to conduct oversight visits. Also, we'll tell you how a newly-updated Air attack base helped to stop the wildfire in Ramona. Next, a preview of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art and the International Bicycle Film Festival. And, some weekend event ideas taking place across the county that you and yours could take part in.

    Comic-Con is here, but for how long?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2026 12:53


    San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria on how long Comic-Con will remain in San Diego. Then, hear what happened when Chula Vista's city council tried to give themselves a big raise this week. And sticking with local governments, Lemon Grove considers a tenant protection ordinance. We've also got a conversation with Marnie Von Wilpert about how she's juggling her campaign for Congress and her recent cancer diagnosis. Plus, reporter John Carroll takes us for a stroll on the new Pride Promenade.

    U.S. Justice Department charges UC San Diego's medical school of racial discrimination

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2026 13:19


    First, the DOJ has accused UC San Diego of racial discrimination. Then, we'll tell you why a billion dollars in medicaid reimbursements is being withheld. Also, a request to raise SDG&E rates is being opposed by some. And, we'll tell you how you can be involved with Comic-Con without having a badge.

    Thousands more San Diego-based troops are in the Middle East as the war intensifies

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2026 12:45


    First, we provide an update on San Diego troops currently in the Middle East. Then, we'll tell you the boost that San Diego County received in their fight against wildfires. Also, the city of Carlsbad is looking into how it can save its historic movie theater. And, how Anime San Diego looks to follow in Comic-Con's footsteps.

    Why you shouldn't let cyclosporiasis stop you from eating your fruits and vegetables

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2026 13:28


    First, we'll tell you the impacts that a food safety scare can have amid a five-state outbreak of cyclosporiasis. Next, we provide a fact-check from the San Diego County Registrar of Voters. Then, we bring you a story about how one small shop is preparing for the Comic-Con rush.

    An effort to change how California primaries are held could land on the ballot

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2026 13:43


    First, we spoke with local party leaders to gauge their interest on potential changes to how California primaries are held. Then, a new SDSU study looks at thirdhand smoke and the associated risks. Next, a group of local high school students secured a meeting with the Sheriff with a goal to reform solitary confinement. And, some weekend events happening across the county that you and yours could take part in.

    Two resolutions voice concern over proposed SDG&E projects

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2026 12:35


    First, two proposed SDG&E projects are raising concern from some. Also, the first of four public meetings occurred around deciding the future of the San Pasqual Academy. Then, a new state plan puts a focus on reducing human-caused wildfires. Next, a local Navy admiral's promotion is being held up, we'll tell you why.

    California is considering added protections for those facilitating gender affirming care and abortions

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2026 14:24


    First, we'll tell you how a new bill would help protect those facilitating gender affirming care surgeries and abortions. Then, a San Diego judge denied a defamation suit filed against KPBS. Also, why saying goodbye to a loved one could cost thousands of dollars. And, the Escondido Public Library is back!

    Massive solar and battery storage project now awaits a County Board of Supervisors vote

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2026 12:39


    First, after the County's planning commission approved a solar energy and battery storage project, it now heads to the County Board of Supervisors for approval. Also, we'll tell you why time might be running out for nearly 1,000 Afghans in a temporary refugee camp. Next, why is San Diego falling behind in its progress to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2025? And, a new night market has brought open-table Mahjong and live music to National City.

    Many DACA recipients are losing their status due to lengthy processing delays

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2026 11:48


    First, federal data shows that DACA applications are taking much longer to process. Next, the World Cup is becoming a distraction for detained migrants. Also, street outreach is helping more people find housing. And, we'll tell you what stricter zoning laws mean for the future of their airport.

    Local leaders gather to highlight bill that addresses housing affordability

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2026 17:16


    First, a major bipartisan bill passed that looks to address housing affordability. Also, the California DMV offers little explanation as to why thousands of drivers must retake the written exam. Then, a chat with San Diego county's Director of Animal Services. Next, an online art shop in Barrio Logan is opening its first brick-and-mortar location.

    Southeast San Diegans lose a half-century fight over an Emeralds Hills property

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2026 15:12


    First, we'll tell you why a housing development has been approved in Emerald Hills despite a half-century fight over the property. Also, the impact of living near the sewage-filled Tijuana River. Next, a look into the history of Pride Month in San Diego. Then, driverless vehicles are coming to San Diego. And, Encanto is throwing a Block Party and you're invited!

    CA lawmakers are considering ending tax break for ICE Detention Center

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2026 13:52


    First, we'll tell you why California lawmakers could do away with a long-standing tax break. Also, why the city says it won't be enforcing its street vendor ordinance. Next, Burn All Books has an exciting new home. And, we visit the California Surf Museum celebrating its 40th year.

    How not-renewing The North American Trade Agreement impacts our cross-border economies

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2026 12:34


    First, we'll tell you what President Trump's refusal to renew the trade agreement could mean for our cross-border economies. Then, Medicare proposes changes regarding conversations around end-of-life care. Next, how dealing with breast cancer inspired one San Diego city council member. And, a new park is coming to Carlsbad that honors our local military and veterans community.

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