Bay Area’s poverty soared, data shows, as California’s top earners saw windfalls

The Trump administration announced new oil and gas drilling off the coasts of California and Florida, potentially igniting political conflict, particularly with Florida Republicans who oppose drilling near the state's beaches. This decision comes amid pressure from the US petroleum industry, which seeks to expand access to offshore drilling despite facing low crude prices.

Tom Steyer, the billionaire environmental activist and former Democratic presidential candidate, has announced his candidacy for governor of California. He aims to replace Gavin Newsom, who is concluding his second term in January 2027. Steyer has pledged to address the state's affordability crisis as part of his campaign.

A recent study revealed that California farms applied an average of 2.5 million pounds of PFAS 'forever chemicals' annually on various crops from 2018 to 2023, totaling approximately 15 million pounds. These chemicals are incorporated into pesticides used on crops such as almonds, pistachios, wine grapes, alfalfa, and tomatoes. The report was compiled by the Environmental Working Group, highlighting concerns over the implications of these chemicals on food safety and environmental health.