Billionaire environmental activist Tom Steyer announces run for California governor

Billionaire hedge fund founder Tom Steyer has announced his candidacy for governor of California. He aims to challenge corporate influence and plans to build a million homes to address the state's affordability crisis.

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.

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against California on Monday to block new laws that prevent law enforcement officials, including federal immigration agents, from wearing masks and require them to identify themselves. The DOJ argues that these laws hinder the ability of law enforcement to perform their duties effectively.

A Spanish museum is contesting California's new law aimed at assisting a family in reclaiming a renowned painting that was seized during World War II. This legal battle has prompted the intervention of the state attorney general, highlighting the complexities surrounding art restitution and the ongoing impact of historical injustices.

A powerful atmospheric river weather system has swept through California, resulting in at least seven fatalities, including a seven-year-old girl. The girl was tragically swept into the ocean by waves estimated to be up to 20 feet high at a state beach. Her father, Yuji Hu, aged 39 from Calgary, Alberta, died while attempting to rescue her. The storm has also caused lingering thunderstorms, raising concerns about potential mudslides in areas around Los Angeles that have recently experienced wildfires.