Beyoncé Leads the Way
We Will Defend Our Constitution:
Set to convene on December 2, the session will prioritize legal strategies to protect civil rights, reproductive freedom, climate action, and immigrant rights, aiming to bolster California’s ability to resist federal policies that may threaten these areas.
Gov. Newsom, Other California Leaders, Respond to Trump’s Win
Tanu T. Henry | California Black Media
Early on Nov. 6 -- shortly after 2 a.m. ET in Palm Beach, Fla.-- President-elect Donald J. Trump declared victory in the 2024 General Election. He thanked supporters and pledged to “fix” the United States with the support of “the biggest, the broadest, the most unified coalition” the country has ever seen.
“They came from all quarters,” Trump said to applause. “Union, nonunion, African American, Hispanic American, Asian American, Arab American, Muslim American, we had everybody, and it was beautiful.”
The next day, Gov. Gavin Newsom thanked Vice President Kamala Harris for a well-fought campaign and congratulated the President-elect, promising to work along with him. However, Newsom put a stake in the ground with a pledge he made as well: to defend the Constitution of the United States and stand up for policies and values that may be at odds with Trump’s politics but are supported by the majority of Californians.
“Though this is not the outcome we wanted, our fight for freedom and opportunity endures,” said Newsom in a statement. “California will seek to work with the incoming
president -- but let there be no mistake, we intend to stand with states across our nation to defend our Constitution and uphold the rule of law.”
Throughout his governorship, Newsom has introduced and rallied support for a number of progressive policies on a range of issues from criminal justice reform, immigration and trade to the environment, abortion and racial justice. Championing those views has positioned Newsom as the protagonist of the political Left and a punching bag of the political Right, including Trump. The incoming POTUS frequently references California in his criticisms and invokes Newsom by name, or a disparaging nickname (“Newscum”), setting the Governor up as his arch-nemesis in political diatribes. On Nov. 8, Newsom issued a proclamation calling for a special convening of the California Legislature to “safeguard California values and fundamental rights in the face of an incoming Trump administration.”
“The freedoms we hold dear in California are under attack -- and we won’t sit idle,” wrote Newsom.
Like Newsom, a number of California elected officials congratulated Trump last week but moderated their well wishes with a commitment to fight against the policies that they disagree with. In anticipation, many have even begun
to put forth counterproposals and organize their opposition to the incoming President and the policies he has promised to introduce to address various problems.
For example, On Nov. 8, California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, who is running for governor, organized a press conference with leaders and advocates in the California education sector to respond to Trump winning the presidential election.
“This week I heard from some educators in Special Education, and they shared with me their fears and their consternation because of what they heard about a threat to end the U.S. Department of Education,” said Thurmond.
“They said, ‘If the U.S. Department of Education is abolished does that mean that they are getting rid of Special Education services for California students?’”
Thurmond addressed those concerns, “Let me be clear,” he continued. “We will not be ever getting rid of Special Education services in the great state of California. And we call on President-elect Trump and the members of Congress to reaffirm their commitment to public education.”
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Black Women Make History as California and U.S. Senators
It’s the same in the U.S. Senate. In October of 2023, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.) to complete the term of Sen. Dianne Feinstein after she passed away in September 2023. Butler will likely be replaced in January by Adam Schiff, who is projected to win the seat after the Nov. 5 general election. Now, two more Black women are on pace to become California State Senators. In the United States Senate, two Black women have already won seats. Lisa Blunt-Rochester of Delaware and Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland will be going to Capitol Hill in January after winning their respective U.S. Senate races. It will be the first time in U.S., history that two Black women have served in the Senate at the same time.
“It is remarkable to think that in two years, America will celebrate is 250th birthday and in all those years, there has been more than 2000 people who have served in the United States Senate and only three have looked like me,” said Alsobrooks in her victory speech on Nov. 5.
“So, I want to salute all of those who came before me, who made it possible for me to stand on this stage tonight, whose sacrifice and stories I will continue to carry with me,” added Alsobrooks. In Southern California, as of Nov. 9, Laura Richardson leads Michelle Chambers with 107,255 votes to 103 638 votes in Senate District 35. Both women are Democrats. The 35th Senate District 35 encompasses an area in South L.A. County, including parts of Inglewood, Compton, San Pedro, Hawthorne, and Carson.
That seat is currently held by California Legislative Black Caucus vice chair Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood), who terms out in December and is running for lieutenant Governor in 2026. Richardson served in the California State Assembly in 2006-2007 before she was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where she served from 2007 to 2013.
“As a dedicated housing advocate for the past decade, I stand unwavering in my commitment to ending homelessness,” Richardson stated on her campaign website.
“With a profound understanding of the pressing issues at hand, my top priority is to spearhead the creation of more affordable housing options.”
Chambers is a former Compton city Councilwoman who has worked for the State’s Attorney General’s office.
“Our campaign is about fighting for the needs of working families,” Chambers posted on the social media platform X, formerly called Twitter, on Oct. 11. “I’ll always stand up for our #SD35 communities – not special interests.”
In San Diego, Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa), is leading her Republican opponent, Bob Devine, in the race for the 39th Senate District seat. Weber has 219, 465 votes (62.4%) so far to Devine’s 132, 044 (37.6%).
Weber and Devine are vying for a seat that is currently held by Sen. Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), who will be running for governor in 2026.
“I am extremely humbled and incredibly grateful for the support you’ve shown me throughout the election,” Weber posted Nov. 6 on the X. “San Diego has just made history by electing the first African American woman to the CA State Senate south of Los Angeles. Thank you for believing in me. Now let’s get to work.”
Eight years ago, Blunt-Rochester first made history in Congress as the first Black person and woman elected to represent Delaware. Alsobrooks was a Maryland states attorney and a County Executive in Prince Georges County before running for the Senate.
Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black person elected as U.S. Senator from California, served from 2016 to 2020. Blunt-Rochester pointed out that Kamala Harris had only four months to launch her presidential campaign, highlighting the significant challenge of such a tight timeline.
“From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank Vice President Kamala Harris for stepping up to run when our country needed her leadership, tenacity, and commitment to serve the American people,” Blunt-Rochester stated. “Because of the trails she blazed, the lives she touched, the communities she fought for, the stories she uplifted, we are better.”
‘Diddy’ Combs Seeks Bail, Citing Changed Circumstances and New Evidence
By LARRY NEUMEISTER
before.
They also cite new evidence that they say “makes clear that the government’s case is thin.” That evidence, the lawyers said, refutes the government’s claim that a March 2016 video showing Combs physically assaulting his then-girlfriend occurred during a coerced “freak off,” a sexually driven event described in the indictment against Combs.
They wrote that the encounter was instead “a minuteslong glimpse into a complex but decade-long consensual relationship” between Combs and his then-girlfriend. The lawyers argued that the jail conditions Combs is experiencing at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn violate his constitutional rights to participate in his defense.
Top row (left to right): Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles), Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-San Diego), Laura Richardson – candidate for CA State Senate District 35. Bottom row (left to right): Lisa Blunt-Rochester (Delaware), Angela Alsobrooks (Maryland), and Michelle Chambers – candidate for CA State Senate District 35.
Antonio Ray Harvey California Black Media
There is one African American woman currently serving in the California State Senate, Sen. Lola SmallwoodCuevas (D-Ladera Heights).
Biden Calls for Unity in Post-Election Speech from the Rose Garden
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National
CorrespondentStanding in the Rose Garden, where a somber yet respectful silence filled the unseasonably warm November air, President Joe Biden addressed reporters, staffers, and supporters gathered to witness his final words on the transition of power. Against a backdrop of blooming roses and the White House’s historic pillars, Biden stated his commitment to a peaceful transition, congratulating President-elect Donald Trump on his victory and extolling the enduring strength of American democracy. His voice carried conviction as he reminded the nation of the unique nature of the American experiment in self-government, where “the will of the people always prevails.”“Yesterday, I spoke with President-elect Trump to congratulate him on his victory,” Biden stated, standing firm despite having bowed out of the race himself under intense pressure from fellow Democrats in July. “I assured him that my administration will work closely with his team to ensure a peaceful and orderly transition.” For Biden, the assurance went beyond procedure; it was, he said, a duty owed to the American people.Biden turned his remarks to Vice President Kamala Harris, whom he praised for her resilience, describing her as a “partner and a public servant” with “a backbone like a ramrod.” The outgoing president recalled Harris’s strength and integrity throughout her 107-day campaign. “She gave her whole heart and effort,” Biden said. “She has great character, true character. She gave her whole heart and effort, and she and her entire team should be proud of the campaign they ran.”Biden continued: “You know, the struggle for the soul of America since our very founding has always been an ongoing debate and still vital today. I know, for some people, it’s a time for victory, to state the obvious. For others, it’s a time of loss. Campaigns are contests of competing visions. The
country chooses one or the other. We accept the choice the country made. I’ve said many times you can’t love your country only when you win. You can’t love your neighbor only when you agree.”The nation’s 46th president acknowledged the range of emotions nationwide. “For some, it’s a time for victory; for others, it’s a time of loss,” he remarked, urging Americans to “see each other not as adversaries but as fellow Americans.” A murmur of
agreement rippled through the crowd as he spoke about the need to bring down the temperature of political discourse. Biden focused on the integrity of the American electoral system, asserting its honesty and transparency. “It can be trusted, win or lose,” he declared. Applause broke out as he expressed gratitude to the election workers across the country, many of whom volunteered to protect the sanctity of the election process.As Biden pledged to uphold the
Constitution, his gaze swept over the crowd. “On January 20th, we will have a peaceful transfer of power here in America,” he affirmed, his voice carrying the weight of a leader committed to his oath. Staffers and longtime supporters nodded in quiet acknowledgment as he expressed deep gratitude for their tireless work.Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, Biden pointed to the infrastructure investments to transform communities in the coming years. “The road ahead is clear,” he said, his optimism undiminished. With 74 days remaining in his term, he pledged to “make every day count. It’s been a historic presidency—not because I’m president—because of what we’ve done, what you’ve done—a presidency for all Americans.”He asserted that the American people are already benefiting from much of the work his administration has done. “The vast majority of it will not be felt over the next 10 years,” he remarked. “We have legislation we passed that’s just now really kicking in. We’re going to see over a trillion dollars’ worth of infrastructure work done, changing people’s lives in rural communities and communities that are in real difficulty because it takes time to get it done, and so much more that’s going to take time. But it’s there.”The president called the road ahead clear, “assuming we sustain it.” He called the legislation he and Harris were able to get through historic.“You know, we’re leaving behind the strongest economy in the world. I know people are still hurting. But things are changing rapidly,” Biden stated. “Together, we’ve changed America for the better. Now we have 74 days to finish the term—our term. Let’s make every day count. That’s the responsibility we have to the American people.“Setbacks are unavoidable, but giving up is unforgivable The American experiment endures, and we’re going to be okay. Above all, we need to keep the faith.”
7 of 10 States Backed Abortion Rights. But Little to Change Yet.
By Bram Sable-SmithVoters backed abortion rights in seven of the 10 states where the issue appeared on ballots Tuesday — at first glance, seemingly reshaping the nation’s patchwork of abortion rules.Colorado, Maryland, Montana, and New York — states where abortions are already permitted at least until fetal viability — all will add abortion protections to their state constitutions. Nevada voters also favored protections and can enshrine them by passing the measure again in the next general election. Florida and South Dakota voters, meanwhile, did not pass abortion rights amendments, and Nebraska voters essentially affirmed the state’s existing ban on abortions
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after the first trimester, while rejecting a measure that would have protected abortions later into pregnancy.The biggest changes came in Arizona, where, in 2022, abortion was banned after 15 weeks, and in Missouri, which has had a near-total ban. Voters in those states approved constitutional amendments to protect abortion rights through fetal viability, opening the door to overturning those states’ restrictions and increasing access to abortion services.But when Alison Dreith, director of strategic partnerships at the Midwest Access Coalition abortion fund, which has helped people from Missouri and 27 other states get abortions, was asked before the results came in how her organization was preparing for logistical changes, she said simply: “We’re not.”That’s because actual access to abortion in the country remains largely unchanged, despite the Nov. 5 results. The web of preexisting state laws on abortions will likely remain in place while they are contested in court, a process that could take months or even years.Dreith said she doesn’t think many voters understood all that before heading to the polls. “It might not get them the results that they want, especially immediately,” Dreith said.Further complicating these state results: The election wins of Donald Trump as president-elect and Republicans in the U.S. Senate, giving their party control, have raised the question of whether a national abortion ban will be on the table. Republicans had demurred on the campaign trail. Such a law would take time to enact, too.The abortion landscape changed dramatically when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned federal abortion protections with its 2022 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. That left abortion rules up to the states, prompting 14 to enact bans with few exceptions and several others to limit access.The ruling also led to a raft of ballot measures: Voters in 16 states have now weighed in on abortion-related ballot measures. Thirteen have favored access to abortions in some way. And while the Florida amendment to protect abortion access failed to meet the necessary 60% threshold to pass, it did receive a majority of the vote.Abortion opponents such as Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America praised the votes rejecting amendments in Florida and South Dakota and lamented the amendments that passed in states, such as Missouri, with restrictive abortion rules and bans.“We mourn the lives that will be lost,” Sue Liebel, its director of state affairs, wrote in a statement. “The disappointing results are a reminder that human rights battles are not won overnight.”States that passed abortion rights amendments in 2022 and 2023 offer a view into the lengthy legal road ahead for abortion policies to take effect. It took nine months after Ohio voters added abortion protections to their state’s constitution for a judge to strike down the state’s 24-hour waiting period for abortions. And some of Michigan’s abortion restrictions, including its own 24-hour waiting period, were suspended only in June, 19 months after Michigan voters approved their state’s abortion rights amendment.Missouri has an extensive set of such rules. Legal abortions had almost ceased even before the state’s ban was triggered by the Dobbs decision. Over three decades, state lawmakers passed a series of restrictions on abortion providers that made it increasingly
difficult to operate there. By 2018, only one clinic was providing abortions in the state, a Planned Parenthood affiliate in St. Louis. Anticipating further tightened restrictions, it opened a large facility 20 miles away in Illinois in 2019.Those laws that reduced the number of recorded abortions in the state from 5,772 in 2011 down to 150 in 2021 remain on the books, despite the newly passed amendment protecting abortion rights.Abortion services often get talked about like a light switch, according to Kimya Forouzan, principal state policy adviser at the Guttmacher Institute, a nonprofit that supports abortion rights. But the infrastructure needed to provide abortions is not so easy to turn on and off.North Dakota’s abortion ban was repealed by the courts in September, for example, but the lone provider of abortions in the state before the ban took effect has no plans to return, having moved operations a five-minute drive away to Minnesota.And even when clinics quickly ramp up services, the legal wrangling over abortion rules can lead to policy whiplash, with patients caught in the middle.Georgia’s law banning most abortions after about six weeks spent years in the courts after it passed in 2019. During two brief stretches after the Dobbs decision, once in 2022 and again in 2024, court rulings meant that clinics in the state could provide abortions up to 22 weeks of pregnancy.Demand for abortion surged during those times, and clinics
were able to resume offering services quickly. But when state courts later said the ban should be enforced, those windows slammed shut. During the 2022 period, some patients scheduled for abortions were left sitting in waiting rooms, according to Megan Cohen, medical director of Planned Parenthood Southeast.The various abortion rights amendments that passed Nov. 5 could also face challenges. In Missouri, the state’s Republican-dominated legislature has attempted to ignore voter-passed amendments before. After Missouri voters added Medicaid expansion to the state’s constitution in 2020, the state legislature refused to fund the program until a judge ordered the state to start accepting applications, prompting significant delays in enrollment.The state’s presumptive House speaker, Republican Jon Patterson, has said the legislature must respect the outcome of the Nov. 5 ballot measure vote, while others have pledged to bring the issue to voters again. In the meantime, Dreith of the Midwest Access Coalition said people seeking abortions in the Midwest will do what they often do in the region for everything from groceries to health care: drive.“We expect that the resources we need are not in our communities,” Dreith said, “and I think that’s been helpful to us in this crisis.”KFF Health News’ Renuka Rayasam and Sam Whitehead in Georgia and Arielle Zionts in South Dakota contributed to this report.
Lee went on, “We must fight to preserve our democracy and our Constitution. We must fight to preserve our rights.
On Nov. 7, Lateefah Simon, who won the election to succeed Lee in the U.S. Congress, told KQED, a Bay Area news outlet, that “We have to fight like hell to ensure that the people of the United States have health care, that we push back on the Trump administration’s promise to gut Social Security.”
On Nov. 6, during a television interview with News Nation’s Chris Cuomo,
Harris.”
Assemblymember James Gallagher (R-Yuba City)
other Republican leaders, on the other hand, celebrated Trump’s victory.
Trump has accomplished the comeback of the century! #45 and #47!” Gallagher posted on X election night.
Marylanders fill out ballots during early voting in Baltimore. (KARL MERTON FERRON/THE BALTIMORE SUN/TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE VIA GETTY IMAGES)
NEW YORK (AP) — The nominations for the 2025 Grammy Awards have been announced, and Beyoncé leads the way. She received 11 nominations, including for album, song and record of the year for music from “Cowboy Carter,” her much-anticipated country album.
Partial List of Nominees for the 2025 Grammy Awards Beyoncé Leads
Post Malone also received nominations in the country categories, including nods for “I Had Some Help,” which give collaborator Morgan Wallen his first Grammy nominations. Other notable nominees include newcomers Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan also scooped up their first nominations. Billie Eilish snagged several nominations, including for album of the year.
The year’s most dominant artist, Taylor Swift, will also compete for several top prizes.
See which artists are nominated in key categories at the 67th annual Grammy Awards, which will be held on Feb. 2 in Los Angeles: Album of the Year
“New Blue Sun,” André 3000; “Cowboy Carter,” Beyoncé; “Short n’ Sweet,” Sabrina Carpenter; “BRAT,” Charli XCX; “Djesse Vol. 4, “Jacob Collier; “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” Billie Eilish; “Chappell Roan The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess,” Chappell Roan; “The Tortured Poets Department,” Taylor Swift. Record of the Year “Now and Then,” the Beatles; “Texas Hold ‘Em,” Beyoncé; “Espresso,” Sabrina Carpenter; “360,” Charli XCX; “Birds of a Feather,” Billie Eilish; “Not Like Us,” Kendrick Lamar; “Good Luck, Babe!”, Chappell Roan; “Fortnight,” Taylor Swift featuring Post Malone. Song Of the Year (Songwriter’s Award)
“A Bar Song (Tipsy),” Sean Cook, Jerrel Jones, Joe Kent, Chibueze Collins Obinna, Nevin Sastry and Mark Williams; “Birds of a Feather,” Billie Eilish O’Connell and FINNEAS; “Die with a Smile,” Dernst Emile II, James Fauntleroy, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars and Andrew Watt); “Fortnight,” Jack Antonoff, Austin Post and Taylor Swift; “Good Luck, Babe!”, Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, Daniel Nigro and Justin Tranter; “Not Like Us,” Kendrick Lamar; “Please Please Please,” Amy Allen, Jack Antonoff and Sabrina Carpenter; “Texas Hold ‘Em,” Brian Bates, Beyoncé, Elizabeth Lowell Boland, Megan Bülow, Nate Ferraro and Raphael Saadiq.
Best New Artist Benson Boone; Sabrina Carpenter; Doechii; Khruangbin; RAYE; Chappell Roan; Shaboozey; Teddy Swims.
Songwriter Of The Year Jessi Alexander; Amy Allen; Edgar Barrera; Jessie Jo Dillon; RAYE.
Best Pop Solo Performance
“Bodyguard,” Beyoncé; “Espresso,” Sabrina Carpenter; “Apple,” Charli XCX; “Birds of a Feather,” Billie Eilish; “Good Luck, Babe!”, Chappell Roan.
Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
“us.,” Gracie Abrams featuring Taylor Swift; “Levii’s Jeans,” Beyoncé featuring Post Malone; “Guess,” Charli XCX and Billie Eilish; “the boy is mine,” Ariana Grande, Brandy and Monica; “Die with a Smile,” Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars.
Best Rap Performance
“Enough (Miami),” Cardi B; “When the Sun Shines Again,” Common and Pete Rock featuring Psdnuos; “Nissan Altima,” Doechii; “Houdini,” Eminem; “Like That,” Future and Metro Boomin featuring Kendrick Lamar; “Yeah Glo!”, GloRilla; “Not Like Us,” Kendrick Lamar.
Best African Music Performance
“Tomorrow,” Yemi Alade; “MMS,” Asake and Wizkid; “Sensational,” Chris Brown featuring Davido and Lojay; “Higher,” Burna Boy; “Love Me JeJe,” Tems.
Best Pop Vocal Album
“Short n’ Sweet,” Sabrina Carpenter; “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” Billie Eilish”; “eternal sunshine,” Ariana Grande; “Chappelll Roan The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess,” Chappell Roan; “The Tortured Poets Department,” Taylor Swift. Best Rap Album
“Might Delete Later,” J. Cole; “The Auditorium, Vol. 1,” Common and Pete Rock; “Alligator Bites Never Heal,” Doechii,” “The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grace),” Eminem; “We Don’t Trust You,” Future and Metro Boomin.
Best Country Album
“Cowboy Carter,” Beyoncé; “F-1 Trillion,” Post Malone; “Deeper Well,” Kacey Musgraves; “Higher,” Chris Stapleton; “Whirlwind,” Lainey Wilson. Best R&B Album
“11:11 (Deluxe),” Chris Brown; “Vantablack,” Lalah
the Way
Hathaway; “Revenge,” Muni Long; “Algorithm,” Lucky Dave; “Coming Home,” Usher. Best Dance/Electronic Album
“BRAT,” Charli XCX; “Three,” Four Tet; “Hyperdrama,” Justice; “Timeless,” KAYTRANADA; “Telos,” Zedd.
Best Rock Album
“Happiness Bastards,” the Black Crowes; “Romance,” Fontaines D.C.; “Saviors,” Green Day; “TANGK,” IDLES; “Dark Matter," Pearl Jam; “Hackney Diamonds,” the Rolling Stones; “No Name,” Jack White.
Best Alternative Music Album
“Wild God,” Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds; “Charm,” Clairo; “The Collective,” Kim Gordon; “What Now,” Brittany Howard; “All Born Screaming,” St. Vincent.
Best Progressive R&B Album
“So Glad to Know You,” Avery(asterisk)Sunshine; “En Route,” Durand Bernarr; “Bando Stone and the New World,” Childish Gambino; “Crash,” Kehlani; “Why Lawd?”, NxWorries (Anderson .Paak and Knxledge).
Best Jazz Vocal Album
“Journey in Black,” Christie Dashiell; “Wildflowers Vol. 1,” Kurt Elling and Sullivan Fortne; “A Joyful Holiday,” Samara Joy; “Milton + esperanza,” Milton Nascimento and esperanza spalding; “My Ideal,” Catherine Russell and Sean Mason.
Best Jazz Instrumental Album
“Owl Song,” Ambrose Akinmusire featuring Bill Frisell and Herlin Riley; “Beyond this Place,” Kenny Barron featuring Kiyoshi Kitagawa, Johnathan Blake, Immanuel Wilkins and Steve Nelson; “Remembrance,” Chick Corea and Béla Fleck; “Solo Game,” Sullivan Fortner.
Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album
“A Fleur de Peau,” Cyrille Aimée; “Visions,” Norah Jones; “Good Together,” Lake Street Dive; “Impossible Dream,” Aaron Lazar; “Christmas Wish,” Gregory Porter.
Best Gospel Album
“Covered Vol. 1,” Melvin Crispell III; “Choirmaster II (Live),” Ricky Dillard; “Father’s Day,” Kirk Franklin; “Still Karen,” Karen Clark Sheard; “More Than This,” CeCe Winans.
Best Contemporary Christian Music Album
“Heart of a Human,” DOE; “When Wind Meets Fire,” Elevation Worship; “Child of God,” Forrest Frank; “Coat of Many Colors,” Brandon Lake; “The Maverick Way Complete,” Maverick City Music, Naomi Raine and Chandler Moore.
Best Latin Pop Album “Funk Generation,” Anitta; “El Viaje,” Luis Fonsi; “GARCÍA,” Kany García; “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran,” Shakira; “ORQUÍDEAS,” Kali Uchis.
Best Latin Urban Album
“nadie sabe lo que va a pasar mañana,” Bad Bunny; “Rayo,” J Balvin; “FERXXOCALIPSIS,” Feid; “Las Letras Ya No Importan,” Residente; “att.,” Young Miko.
Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album
“Compita del Destino,” El David Aguilar; “Pa’ Tu Cuerpa,” Cimafunk; “Autopoiética,” Mon Laferte; “GRASA,” Nathy Peluso; “¿Quien Trae las Cornetas?”, Rawayana.
Best Reggae Album
“Take it Easy,” Collie Budz; “Party with Me,” Vybz Kartel; “Never Gets Late Here,” Shenseea; “Bob Marley: One Love – Music Inspired by the Film (Deluxe),” Various artists; “Evolution,” the Wailers.
Best Spoken Word Poetry Album
“Civil Writes: The South Got Something to Say,” Queen Sheba; “Concrete & Whiskey Act II Part 1: A Bourbon 30 Series,” Omari Hardwick; “Good M.U.S.I.C. Universe Sonic Sinema: Episode 1 In the Beginning was the Word,” Malik Yusef; “The Heart, the Mind, the Soul,” Tank and the Bangas; “The Seven Number Ones,” Mad
Skillz. Best Comedy Album
“Armageddon,” Ricky Gervais; “The Dreamer,” Dave Chappelle; “The Prisoner,” Jim Gaffigan; “Someday You’ll Die,” Nikki Glaser; “Where Was I,” Trevor Noah. Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media
“The Color Purple”; “Deadpool & Wolverine”; “Maestro: Music by Leonard Bernstein”; “Saltburn”; “Twisters: The Album.” Best Song Written for Visual Media “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma” from “Twisters,” Jessi Alexander, Luke Combs and Jonathan Singleton; “Better Place” from “Trolls Band Together,” Amy Allen, Shellback and Justin Timberlake; “Can’t Catch Me Now” from “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,” Daniel Nigro and Olivia Rodrigo; “It Never Went Away” from “American Symphony,” Jon Batiste and Dan Wilson; “Love Will Survive,” from “The Tattooist of Auschwitz,” Walter Afanasieff, Charlie Midnight, Kara Talve and Hans Zimmer. Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media (composer’s award)
“American Fiction,” Laura Karpman; “Challengers,” Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross; “The Color Purple,” Kris Bowers; “Dune: Part Two,” Hans Zimmer; “Shogun,” Nick Chuba, Atticus Ross and Leopold Ross.
Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical Alissia; Dernst “D’Mile” Emile II; Ian Fitchuk; Mustard; Daniel Nigro. Best Music Video
“Tailor Swif,” A$AP Rocky; “360,” Charli XCX; “Houdini,” Eminem; “Not Like Us,” Kendrick Lamar; “Fortnight,” Taylor Swift featuring Post Malone. Best Music Film
“American Symphony”; “June”; “Kings from Queens”; “Steven Van Zandt: Disciple”; “The Greatest Night in Pop.”
Actor Tony Todd, Known for His Role in the Movie ‘Candyman’ and Other Films, Dies at 69
By JEFF MARTIN Associated Press
Eds: EDITS: Minor edits regarding the movie "Candyman" and its 2021 remake.
Actor Tony Todd, known for his haunting portrayal of a killer in the horror film “Candyman” and roles in many other films and television shows, has died, his longtime manager confirmed. He was 69.
Todd died Wednesday at his home in the Los Angeles area, his manager Jeffrey Goldberg said in a statement to The Associated Press.
“I had the privilege to have Tony as my friend and client for over 30 years and I will miss that amazing man every single day,” Goldberg said.
“Known worldwide for his towering presence, both physically and artistically, Tony leaves behind an indelible legacy in film, theater, and the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him," Goldberg's management company said in announcing the death.
“We bid farewell to Tony Todd, a giant of cinema and a beloved soul whose impact on our lives and the world of film will never be forgotten,” it said.
Todd's film resume included roles in award-winning movies such as the Oliver Stone-directed classic “Platoon,” released in 1986. Todd was also known for his role in the 2000 horror
film “Final Destination” and its sequel in 2003. The film company New Line Cinema mourned Todd's death on social media over the weekend:
“The industry has lost a legend," the company said on Instagram. “We have lost a cherished friend. Rest in peace, Tony.”
In “Candyman,” released in 1992 and followed by a remake in 2021, Todd played a menacing killer who had a hook on one arm. The premise is built around an urban myth that Candyman roamed the Cabrini-Green housing projects in Chicago and could be summoned by saying his name five times in front of a mirror. The 2021 movie explores societal problems such as racism and police brutality. Todd's television career included roles in “Night Court,” “Matlock” and “Law & Order.” “Off-screen, Tony was cherished as a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of kindness and wisdom,” Goldberg's company said. “He gave his time and resources to aspiring actors, consistently advocating for greater representation and authenticity within the industry.”
“Those who knew him will remember his warm laugh, generous spirit, and his dedication to his craft,” the company said. “Whether on stage, on screen, or in personal conversations, Tony brought an unyielding honesty that resonated deeply with his friends, family, and fans.”
Election Proves Black Americans Have No Allies
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
Texas Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s words mirrored Shirley Chisholm’s groundbreaking observation decades ago: “Of the two handicaps, being Black is much less of a handicap than being a female.” Crockett’s reflection on Donald Trump’s resounding victory over Vice President Kamala Harris pointed to what many saw as a dissonance between the candidate and the country’s decision. Crockett highlighted Harris’s qualifications, intelligence, and kindness compared to Trump, yet acknowledged the public’s apparent preference for fear over progress. “As I said many times on the trail, this election was more about us and what it is that we wanted for our future… and well PROJECT 2025 is loading,” she warned, referencing the former president’s sweeping agenda. For many African Americans, Trump’s victory felt like an isolating moment, a reaffirmation of what they’ve long suspected: their allies were never permanent. Bishop Talbert Swan put it bluntly on social media: “There is no Black/brown coalition…Latinos voted on the side of white supremacy. We’re in this by ourselves.” Swan’s words echo the sentiments of many Black voters who watched as Latino support for Trump surged, even as his platform targeted marginalized communities. Meanwhile, Black
voters were again held to their high standard of loyalty to the Democratic Party, only to feel abandoned as alliances dissolved and communities prioritized their own survival.
“Black people are tired,” shared journalist Kathia Woods on Let It Be Known, the Black Press of America’s daily news broadcast. This sentiment of exhaustion has been echoed across social media, as Washington Informer journalist Anthony Tilghman tweeted an arresting graphic illustrating Black Americans’ sense of isolation: “This
presidential race highlights the significant influence of race on the election outcome,” Tilghman wrote. “A majority of white women and men expressed reluctance towards having another Black president in office, regardless of the individual’s qualifications.”Public figures sounded their own alarms on the social media landscape. Cardi B took to Instagram, bluntly posting: “I hate ya’ll bad,” in a pointed message to Trump voters. Justice correspondent Elie Mystal offered a sobering perspective: “Black people are relatively well prepared for what’s about to happen because it’s happened to us before. America has done this to us before.”The stakes stretch further than any one individual’s leadership, with significant consequences predicted for American institutions. Actor Wendell Pierce, reflecting on Trump’s influence on the Supreme Court, tweeted, “The Supreme Court will be changed for a generation… I’ll never see a moderate court again in my lifetime.” For others, Yvette Nicole Brown captured the sentiment that the rest of the country may now begin to feel what Black communities have long endured. “The rest of you are about to be shocked by how America treats you when it doesn’t care about you… The find out phase has begun,” she posted.Across demographics, voting trends highlighted a widening rift as each non-Black group increased their support for Trump. “When we say Black people have
no permanent allies… we mean Black people have no permanent allies,” noted one commenter, underscoring a stark double standard: the willingness to elect a convicted felon, with seemingly little regard for qualifications or integrity.The sense of betrayal was palpable in many reflections. Elie Mystal captured this frustration, stating, “Watching Latinos chase model minority status has never sat well with Black people, but this is a wound the Black community won’t soon forget.” The solidarity once hoped for among marginalized groups seems distant, fractured along lines of race, ideology, and self-interest. Meanwhile, University of South Carolina Professor Sueanna Smith weighed in on the structural underpinnings of this political moment, explaining, “There is a reason why educated people vote blue. What we’re seeing is the uneducated population of America holding the rest of the country hostage. This is why there’s such a push to weaken education, ban books, and outlaw the teaching of Black history by the Republican Party.”
As Mystal aptly put it, “One thing I do worry about, is that the ‘solidarity’ between ‘people of color’ has been significantly damaged. Black people have learned that all we have is each other.”
Guidance from Black Ministers Offers Strength
By Joe W. Bowers Jr
California Black Media
With Donald Trump recently elected as the 47th President, many Black Californians are feeling a mix of concern and uncertainty, especially with Project 2025 -- a conservative plan poised to impact social services, voting rights, education reform, and environmental protections -- areas that support the well-being of Black communities across the state.
At the November meeting of the Inglewood Area Ministers Association (IAMA) held two days after the General Election at the Center of Hope Church, IAMA charter member retired Rev. William Thurmond shared how he had comforted family members troubled by the election’s outcome.
Thurmond turned to the Book of Samuel, recounting how Samuel, a prophet and leader, anointed Israel’s kings and guided the people through turbulent political transitions. He suggested that Samuel’s story offers insight into how to view leadership that may seem flawed or contrary to one’s personal values.
Drawing from 1 Samuel 8, Thurmond explained how the people of Israel demanded a king to lead them despite Samuel’s warnings of the hardships that the decision would bring.
Quoting directly, Thurmond shared Samuel’s warning: “This will be the manner of the king that shall reign over you: he will take your sons, and appoint them for himself,
for his chariots, and to be his horsemen… he will take your fields, and your vineyards, and your olive yards… he will take the tenth of your seed, and of your vineyards, and give to his officers, and to his servants.” (1 Samuel 8:11, 14–15).
“Much like that moment in history,” Thurmond said, “we, too, may need to brace ourselves for difficult times. But just as the Israelites were called to press on, we are called to stay resilient, support one another, and keep our focus on a future beyond this administration.”
His reflections inspired a broader discussion among the IAMA members present, who agreed that when leaders change, the community’s responsibility to each other and to their faith stays unwavering and strong.
“Samuel’s journey teaches us that when leaders change, our calling to stand together in faith and purpose does not,” Thurmond continued. “This isn’t the time to sink into worry or feel defeated.” Instead, he encouraged everyone to find strength in the story, viewing it as a call to rise, support one another, and act with purpose.
Facing Project 2025 and Trump’s Leadership
In response to Thurmond’s reflections, the ministers shared concerns that Trump’s authoritarian leadership style, marked by divisive rhetoric, along with Project 2025’s proposed policy changes, could pose significant challenges for Black Californians.
They agreed that Trump and Project 2025 could undo hard-won progress and limit access to essential resources.
Given these challenges, the ministers emphasized the need for vigilance, unity, and civic engagement.
“We have every reason to be watchful,” said one minister. “Project 2025 aims to undo progress that we fought so hard for over decades. We must stay informed and resilient.”
Principles for Resilience and Unity
From the ministers’ discussion inspired by the Book of Samuel, a set of guiding principles naturally took shape that could help Black Californians face the challenges ahead. Rather than prescribing specific actions, they focused on values rooted in faith and community -- awareness, support, civic engagement, and resilience -- that can serve as anchors in these times.
1. Building Resilience Through Awareness
The ministers underscored that staying informed is fundamental to resilience. They encouraged attending forums, joining discussions, and actively engaging with local representatives to stay connected and aware of any policy changes stemming from Project 2025.
2. Strength in Community Support
Through their discussions, the ministers concluded that coming together as a community is crucial. During uncertain times, shared support becomes a vital resource.
Organizing community events, supporting Black-owned businesses, and participating in local groups can foster resilience and provide resources for those impacted by policy shifts.
3. Engaging in Civic Life Active participation in civic life is more essential now than ever, the ministers stressed. Trump’s presidency and Project 2025 present serious challenges for Black communities. The ministers expressed that everyone should get involved in local government, vote, and participate in advocacy efforts. Every voice counts and Black Californians can help influence policies that support their communities by staying engaged.
4. Fostering Unity and Resilience Nurturing resilience through spiritual and cultural practices offers additional strength. The ministers suggested regular gatherings, community circles, and cultural events to build hope, foster unity, and create a foundation of resilience during uncertain times.
Moving Forward with Purpose As the meeting concluded, one minister shared, “Just as Samuel guided the people through turbulent times, we have the chance to guide each other. This is not a time for fear but a call to face the future with confidence, grounded in faith, community, and purpose.” In facing the changes ahead, Black Californians can draw upon a legacy of resilience, transforming uncertainty into strength. With faith as a guiding light, the community can move forward -- not just to survive but to shape a future grounded in unity, action, and hope.
For Black Americans, ‘Sundown’ Approaches as a Fateful Inauguration Looms
By Stacy M.
African Americans were blatantly ignored. While there’s little doubt that white women—sacrificing their rights to choose healthcare—and Latinos—sealing the fate of many of their brethren who will be ostracized, deported, and worse, will reap some of the repercussions of Trump’s return—Black citizens face the brunt of that decision, confronting the potential resurgence of sundown towns, unchecked racist policing, and policies that threaten to let America’s ugliest prejudices flourish once more.
Trump’s proposed and devastating agenda includes dismantling the Department of Justice’s civil rights division and ending federal oversight that has long been essential for marginalized communities. Even more alarming, Trump has pledged to grant police officers complete immunity in cases involving unarmed citizens, signaling a return to a climate where police can act without accountability. For many, this agenda is not only a step backward—it is a revival of an era when Black Americans had to tread carefully in towns across America to avoid violence or worse.
Sundown Towns: A Legacy Closer Than Expected Historically, “sundown towns” were communities where Black Americans were told to leave by sunset or face violent consequences. Though often associated with the Jim Crow South, these towns spanned the entire country, from coast to coast, leaving their mark in states not far from Washington, D.C. In Levittown, Pennsylvania, for instance, Black families were explicitly barred from purchasing homes when a town was developed in the 1950s—a policy reflective of racial exclusion in other nearby communities. Similarly, Elkton, Maryland, located less than two hours from D.C., held an unspoken “no-go” rule for Black travelers after dark, a reminder of the racial divide near the nation’s capital.
Further examples dot the region. Vienna, Virginia, although not historically labeled a sundown town, had neighborhoods with restrictive covenants excluding Black residents, and Greenwood, Delaware, similarly held an exclusionary legacy through much of the 20th century. Such towns, both near and far, stand as reminders that racial hostility is not confined to distant history or faraway places.
In Ohio, Parrysville and New Lebanon carry lingering reputations for exclusion, while Martinsville, Indiana, a required pass-through town for students heading to Indiana University, is marked by Confederate flags and reminders of a time when Black residents were warned to stay away. In Kentucky, research indicates that at least 60 towns continue to be identified as sundown towns, with Corbin and Salisbury, North Carolina, retaining incredibly hostile attitudes toward Black residents and travelers. In Vidor, Texas—another notorious sundown town—Confederate flags and racially exclusive policies create an environment where Black visitors know they are unwelcome.
Driving While Black: An Ongoing Risk
The legacy of sundown towns is alive in the experiences of Black Americans today, especially while traveling. The experience of Sheila Lettsome and her husband in 2019 serves as evidence that “driving while Black” is still a dangerous reality. Driving through a quiet Ohio town, police stopped the couple without reason. Despite having an updated registration, police officers asked where they were going and if they were “lost.” Sensing a silent threat, they quickly took the officer’s “suggested route” out of town. Only later did they learn they’d crossed into a known sundown town—a reminder that, in some places, Black travelers are still unsafe on the road. Such incidents highlight the dangers Black Americans continue to face in areas with sundown legacies. Trump’s plan to grant police full immunity—especially in cases involving unarmed citizens—amplifies this threat. The proposed protections for police, combined with a dismantling of the DOJ’s civil rights division, effectively tell Black Americans that abuses could go unchecked and unpunished, making “driving while Black” an even greater risk.
Trump’s Campaign Rallies: A Signal to “Sundown America” Trump’s campaign rallies themselves sent alarms across Black communities. Choosing to hold events in towns known for racial exclusion and Ku Klux Klan activity, such as Howell, Michigan, and Cullman, Alabama, many civil rights advocates argue these stops are intentional dog whistles. Cullman, a town where for decades Black visitors were warned to “not let the sun set on their heads,” hosted a Trump rally—a move some called a loud signal to his far-right base.
In Howell, which has a history of KKK activity, videos from the rally showed Black attendees facing verbal and
physical harassment, reinforcing the racial tensions that sundown towns once weaponized to intimidate. At the time, Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign described these venues as a “deliberate choice,” intended to rally extremist supporters and rekindle painful reminders of America’s past racial hostilities.
A Future Without Civil Rights Protections
The Trump agenda is not limited to rhetoric or rally locations; his proposal to eliminate the DOJ’s civil rights division would strip away vital protections for Black communities. The DOJ has long served as a backstop for holding law enforcement accountable and defending against housing, employment, and voting discrimination. Without it, Black Americans are left without crucial federal support, leaving them exposed to abuses and discrimination that could escalate under Trump’s immunity plan for police.
Granting complete immunity to police who shoot unarmed citizens creates an environment in which law enforcement could operate without consequences, giving Black communities fewer options to contest misconduct or violence. This vision threatens to turn back the clock to an era where sundown towns enforced racial exclusion with impunity. Trump’s campaign promises, coupled with his choice of rally venues, suggest that his second term could usher in a “sundown America”—a country where Black citizens must once again live with constant vigilance, mindful of the dangers of traveling, living, or simply existing freely. An Ominous Roadmap for Black America For Black Americans, Trump’s campaign rallies, rhetoric, and policies form a chilling roadmap toward a society that looks disturbingly like the days of Jim Crow. As historian James Loewen, author of Sundown Towns: A Hidden Dimension of American Racism, warned, the greatest mistake is to assume sundown towns are relics of the past. “Driving while Black” in these communities often means navigating unspoken rules, risking dangerous encounters, and carrying a constant awareness of hostile environments. “Sometimes the dog whistle actually works, loudly spoken,” remarked Professor Joyce Alene Vance. For Black Americans, the threat of sundown towns and Trump’s proposed rollback of civil rights protections cast a dark shadow. “Without the DOJ’s oversight and with broad police immunity, Black Americans could face a landscape where, once again, some towns remain dangerous to enter, let alone call home,” Sandra Allison, a defense lawyer in Alabama, stated.
Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
CARB’s Environment-Friendly Vote Could Hit Californians With Higher Prices at Gas Pump
By Antonio Ray Harvey California Black Media
After a 12-hour public comment period and debate, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved updates to the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) with a 12-2 vote, ensuring its ambitious commitment to reaching zero-emission goals for the transportation sector by 2045.
The meeting took place at Haagen-Smit Auditorium in Riverside. The approval of the fuel standards is expected to trigger an increase in gas prices in the state, but board members are uncertain how much more Californians
would have to pay at the pump.
“The proposal approved today strikes a balance between reducing the environmental and health impacts of transportation fuel used in California and ensuring that low-carbon options are available as the state continues to work toward a zero-emissions future,” said CARB Chair Liane Randolph.
CARB board members serve as the air quality regulators for the state aligned with climate change programs, and they oversee all air pollution control efforts in California. From requirements for clean vehicles and fuels to promoting solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, CARB creates standards for effective air and
climate programs.
The amendments of LCFS are directed to decrease the carbon intensity of California’s transportation fuel pool by 30% by 2030 and by 90% by 2045, according to CARB. The provisions also expand support for zero-emissions infrastructure, including for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, and make more public transit agencies eligible to generate credits.
According to CARB staff, the LCFS program is designed to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by “setting a declining carbon intensity target for transportation fuels” used in the state.
The modifications to LCFS arrived after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation legislation to help prevent gas price spikes.
Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles), a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), voted for the Newsom-backed measure to protect consumers from gas prices spikes, but during the special session he said many people of color in his South Los Angeles district were struggling with high gas prices and were looking for relief.
“I am hoping that in this legislation that we do have the teeth to ensure that people in South Los Angeles will be protected,” Jones-Sawyer said. The lawmaker is termed out of office in December.
CLBC members Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles) and Assemblymembers Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) and and Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley)
attended the governor’s signing event of Assembly Bill (AB) ABX2-1 at the State Capitol in October.
“The state has the tools to make sure they backfill supplies and plan ahead for maintenance so there aren’t shortages that drive up prices,” Newsom said in an Oct. 14 written statement.
Senate Minority Leader Brian Dahle (R-Bieber) expressed his concerns about the vote. In a written statement released after the meeting, he indicated that California residents could see gas prices upwards of 65 cents per gallon.
Dahle referred to the governor’s extended session as “Special Session Stunt 2.0.”
“(The) decision by CARB will not only make it more expensive for families, but also disproportionately affect residents in rural communities in my district who must travel long distances for groceries, healthcare, etc.,” Dahle stated. “Californians shouldn’t have to forfeit taking their family out to dinner in order to afford putting gas in the car just to get to work.”
In October, California Legislative Republicans (CLR) sent a five-page letter to Randolph estimating that the change could lift gasoline prices 47 cents a gallon, or $6.4
billion a year.
The letter was signed off by 25 Republicans in the California Legislature, including Dahle.
“A separate study placed the pump cost much higher – 65 cents a gallon. Now the air board has backed off its 47-cent price hike estimate. And it refuses to offer a revised forecast,” the Oct. 15 document stated.
At present, the LCFS program currently limits the “pass-through costs companies can shift to consumers,” according to CARB. This action is done by putting a lid on the price of credits that are high-carbon-intensity fuelproducing.
CARB shared that information provided by thirdparty product experts explains the current LCFS passthrough to Californians is $0.10 per gallon of gasoline. The data, according to CARB, is in line with the selfreported data by high-carbon-intensity fuel producers, which reflects an LCFS cost pass-through to consumers of $0.08 to $0.10 per gallon of gasoline.
“(The board’s) approval increases consumer options beyond petroleum, provides a roadmap for cleaner air, and leverages private sector investment and federal incentives to spur innovation to address climate change and pollution,” Randolph stated.
Liane Randolph, chair CARB.
Davina Hurt, Bay Area AQMD member
California Capitol News You Might Have Missed Political Playback:
By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey
California Black Media
Tony
Thurmond
Vows to Protect Education in
California
In the wake of the general election and Donald Trump winning another term as president, State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SPI) Tony Thurmond is on a mission to protect public education in California.
On Nov. 8, Thurmond, members of the California legislature, educators, union leaders, and other elected officials expressed their concerns at a news conference about the possibility of the Trump Administration dismantling the U.S. Department of Education (DOE).
“To tear down and abolish an organization that provides protections for our students is a threat to the wellbeing of our students and our families and of Americans,” Thurmond said.
Thurmond said losing $8 billion dollars in federal funding is at stake. During his campaign, Trump didn’t hesitate to take barbs at the DOE.
Closing the doors of the DOE could affect a range of scholastic programs such as Special Education, English as a Second Language (ESL), free lunch, federal grants for college students and Title I, a program that provides support to educate disadvantaged families.
California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, along with lawmakers, union leaders, and educators, appeals to President-elect Donald Trump to commit to supporting public education. November 8, 2024. CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.
Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance), the chair of the Assembly Education Committee, spoke at the news conference held in the boardroom of the California Department of Education building. Muratsuchi said, “We need to get ready now for what is going to start on Jan. 20 (2025).”
“It is the job of every teacher, every school board member, every principal, every elected representative in the state of California who believes in public education,” he said. “It is time for us to stand up to protect all of these kids. When we are facing a bully who is targeting our most vulnerable students, we all need to stand up.” Trump has said that he prefers the Choice School initiative, a policy that provides parents and students the choice to use public funds to attend a school other than their district or local public school. Thurmond and supporters of the traditional public school system are asking President-elect Trump and the U.S. Congress to continue federal supporting the funding of the programs.
Thurmond said he has started reaching out to lawmakers in Washington, D.C., and in the California legislature to get in front of Trumps policy plans.
“I’m prepared to sponsor legislation that would call on the California State Legislature and the Governor to backfill that funding to preserve and protect that funding for the students of California,” Thurmond said.
California Voters Embrace Stricter Crime Laws with Prop 36
California voters have approved Proposition 36, a ballot measure imposing stricter penalties for retail theft, property crimes, and drug offenses, effectively rolling back aspects of the state’s 2014 Proposition 47.
Prop 47 aimed to reduce California’s prison population by reclassifying some non-violent felonies as misdemeanors, shifting funds from incarceration to toward drug treatment and victim services . However, supporters of Prop 36 argue that Prop 47’s leniency has contributed to increased property crime, homelessness, and drug addiction.
Mike Gatto, a Democratic former state assemblymember from Los Angeles is a proponent of Prop 36 and anticipates that the initiative will curb retail crime in the state.
“The voters recognize that Prop 36 is a sensible measure and that it will be the first step in stopping the retail thefts that make shopping miserable,” said Gatto.
Backed by law enforcement, business groups, and a mix of political leaders, including outgoing San Francisco Mayor London Breed, Prop 36 seeks to address homelessness and the fentanyl crisis through longer prison sentences for drug dealers and a mandatory treatment program for individuals with addiction issues.
Opponents say the measure will increase California’s prison population and court system costs, estimated in the tens of millions.
Critics, including social justice groups, warn that Prop 36 undermines the progress achieved under Prop 47, which has reallocated over $800 million to treatment and behavioral health initiatives. Opponents like Californians for Safety and Justice argue the new law preys on public fear, exacerbated by viral retail theft incidents, to push a “tough-on-crime” agenda that may drain resources from essential support programs.
Proponents, however, contend that addressing rising crime rates justifies these increased expenses, with Gatto expressing confidence that the legislature can allocate funding to offset any cuts to treatment services.
California Attorney General Unveils New Guidelines to Safeguard Abortion Access
California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a law enforcement bulletin outlining the state’s legal protections for individuals seeking reproductive healthcare.
The new guidance emphasizes the right to timely, confidential care, free from harassment or threats, as established by Assembly Bill 1356 (AB 1356), authored by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda).
This law complements the California Freedom of Access to Clinic and Church Entrances (FACE) Act, which mandates that state and local law enforcement agencies develop policies for handling anti-reproductive rights incidents.
“Abortion care is healthcare; and in California, access to abortion care is a constitutionally protected right,” said Bonta.
The bulletin aims to equip law enforcement with the tools to effectively respond to violent or threatening situations at reproductive healthcare facilities, ensuring the safety of both providers and patients.
In response to a national surge in violence and harassment targeting abortion providers, particularly in states that protect abortion access, the bulletin provides guidelines for law enforcement on addressing antireproductive rights crimes. The National Abortion Federation reports significant incidents, including arson and death threats, aimed at clinics across the country.
The bulletin also references revised 2023 guidelines from the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, which cover law enforcement’s role in preventing violence, providing training, and managing protests and events. With these measures in place, Bonta reaffirmed California’s commitment to defending reproductive rights and ensuring the state’s continued role as a stronghold for reproductive freedom.
California Voters Reject Proposition 33, Blocking Expansion of Rent Control Protections
California voters have rejected Proposition 33, which aimed to expand rent control protections by repealing the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act. With nearly 95% of precincts reporting, 61.6% of voters opposed the measure, while 38.4% supported it. The proposition would have allowed cities to extend rent control to properties not previously covered, such as newer homes and units with new tenants.
The initiative, backed by labor unions and tenant advocacy groups, sought to ease housing costs for groups like seniors, low-wage workers, and veterans. However, it faced strong opposition from landlords, real estate developers, and property owners, who argued that it would worsen California’s housing crisis by discouraging new construction and lowering property values.
This marks the third failure of a similar measure, following two unsuccessful attempts in 2018 and 2020. Proponents of Prop. 33 raised $50.1 million, while opponents outspent them with $124.6 million.
Re-election of Donald Trump Sparks Fears of Conflict for California’s Schools and Immigrant Communities
The re-election of Donald Trump is set to create significant challenges for California, particularly in the areas of education and immigrant protections. Trump has threatened to cut school funding for states, including California, that uphold policies protecting transgender students and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in schools.
With federal K-12 public school funding in California totaling $7.9 billion annually, these cuts could have a major impact on the state’s education system. Additionally, advocates say, Trump’s promise to deport undocumented immigrants en masse threatens the stability of millions of California families, including students with undocumented parents.
Gov. Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta have signaled their intent to resist Trump’s policies, with Bonta preparing for possible litigation against measures that threaten rights for transgender youth and undocumented individuals. In the past, California has sued
the federal government over more than 100 of Trump’s actions, particularly during his first term.
Bruce Fuller, professor of education and public policy at the University of California Berkeley, stated that Trump’s tax cuts to the rich will be paid for by budget cuts in public education.
“The president-elect’s commitment to cutting taxes for affluent Americans means there will be no new funding for public schools,” said Fuller. “Watch out for efforts to expand vouchers and tax credits for well-off parents who opt for private schools.”
Education experts also worry that Trump’s proposed tax cuts for the wealthy could lead to budget cuts for public schools, while his push to expand school vouchers and tax credits could divert funding away from public education. Trump’s proposals to reduce federal involvement in education, such as cutting teacher tenure and introducing merit pay, also conflict with current federal law.
The potential deportation of undocumented immigrants is a significant concern for many families in California, where an estimated one in 10 children has an undocumented parent. This has already caused anxiety among students and teachers. Educators fear Trump’s policies will undermine public education, with some predicting a backlash against teacher associations and unions that support Democrats.
California Voters Approve $10 Billion Bond for Environmental Projects
California voters have approved a $10-billion bond measure aimed at funding environmental projects across the state. Proposition 4, titled the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024, will allocate funds for a variety of initiatives, including water management, wildfire protection, and climate resilience.
The bond includes $3.8 billion for water projects such as safe drinking water, water recycling, groundwater storage, and flood control. An additional $1.5 billion will be used for wildfire prevention, and $1.2 billion will go toward protecting the coast from sea level rise. The measure also funds projects to create parks, preserve wildlife, combat air pollution, and support sustainable agriculture. Liz Forsburg Pardi, California policy director at the Nature Conservancy, celebrated the approval.
“We are inspired and grateful to see voters back the largest climate and natural resources bond in state history,” said Forsburg Pardi.
“Voters sent a powerful signal that climate resilience is a priority,” she said.
However, opponents say, the bond will cost taxpayers an estimated $400 million annually for the next 40 years, totaling $16 billion with interest, according to the Legislative Analyst’s Office.
The bond was proposed after the state’s budget deficit forced the cancellation of billions of dollars in planned climate spending. Supporters, including environmental groups and renewable energy companies, argue the projects are essential to addressing the state’s climate challenges.
Opponents, such as the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, expressed concerns over the cost arguing that by issuing bonds, the cost could more than double due to interest. The organization advocated for the state to fund the projects without accruing debt. Despite this, the measure passed with strong voter backing, signaling a clear commitment to addressing California’s environmental needs.
Trump’s White House Return Poised to Tangle Health Care Safety Net
By Stephanie Armour
Former President Donald Trump’s election victory and looming return to the White House will likely bring changes that scale back the nation’s public health insurance programs — increasing the uninsured rate, while imposing new barriers to abortion and other reproductive care. The reverberations will be felt far beyond Washington, D.C., and could include an erosion of the Affordable Care Act’s consumer protections, the imposition of work requirements in Medicaid and funding cuts to the safety net insurance, and challenges to federal agencies that safeguard public health. Abortion restrictions may tighten nationwide with a possible effort to restrict the mailing of abortion medications. And with the elevation of vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to Trump’s inner circle of advisers, public health interventions with rigorous scientific backing — whether fluoridating public water supplies or inoculating children — could come under fire.
Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris with 277 Electoral College votes, The Associated Press declared at 5:34 a.m. ET on Wednesday. He won 51% of the vote nationally to Harris’ 47.5%, the AP projected.
Trump’s victory will give a far broader platform to skeptics and critics of federal health programs and actions. Worst case, public health authorities worry, the U.S. could see increases in preventable illnesses; a weakening of public confidence in established science; and debunked notions — such as a link between vaccines and autism — adopted as policy. Trump said in an NBC News interview on Nov. 3 that he would “make a decision” about banning some vaccines, saying he would consult with Kennedy and calling him “a very talented guy.”
While Trump has said he will not try again to repeal the Affordable Care Act, his administration will face an immediate decision next year on whether to back an extension of enhanced premium subsidies for Obamacare insurance plans. Without the enhanced subsidies, steep premium increases causing lower enrollment are projected. The current uninsured rate, about 8%, would almost certainly rise.
Policy specifics have not moved far beyond the “concepts of a plan” Trump said he had during his debate with Harris, though Vice President-elect JD Vance later said
the administration would seek to inject more competition into ACA marketplaces.
Republicans were projected to claim a Senate majority, in addition to the White House, while control of the House was not yet resolved early Wednesday.
Polls show the ACA has gained support among the public, including provisions such as preexisting condition protections and allowing young people to stay on family health plans until they are 26.
Trump supporters and others who have worked in his administration say the former president wants to improve the law in ways that will lower costs. They say he has already shown he will be forceful when it comes to lowering high health care prices, pointing to efforts during his presidency to pioneer price transparency in medical costs.
“On affordability, I’d see him building on the first term,” said Brian Blase, who served as a Trump health adviser from 2017 to 2019. Relative to a Democratic administration, he said, there will be “much more focus” on “minimizing fraud and waste.”
Efforts to weaken the ACA could include slashing funds for enrollment outreach, enabling consumers to purchase more health plans that don’t comply with ACA consumer protections, and allowing insurers to charge sicker people higher premiums.
Democrats say they expect the worst.
“We know what their agenda is,” said Leslie Dach, executive chair of Protect Our Care, a health care policy and advocacy organization in Washington, D.C. He worked in the Obama administration helping to implement the ACA.
“They’re going to raise costs for millions of Americans and rip coverage away from millions and, meanwhile, they will give tax breaks to rich people.”
Theo Merkel, director of the Private Health Reform Initiative at the right-leaning Paragon Health Institute, which Blase leads, said the enhanced ACA subsidies extended by the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022 do nothing to improve plans or lower premiums. He said they paper over the plans’ low value with larger government subsidies.
Other Trump supporters say the president-elect may support preserving Medicare’s authority to negotiate drug prices, another provision of the IRA. Trump has championed reducing drug prices, and in 2020 advanced
a test model that would have tied the prices of some drugs in Medicare to lower costs overseas, said Merkel, who worked in Trump’s first White House. The drug industry successfully sued to block the program.
Within Trump’s circles, some names have already been floated as possible leaders for the Department of Health and Human Services. They include former Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal and Seema Verma, who ran the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services during the Trump administration.
Kennedy, who suspended his independent presidential run and endorsed Trump, has told his supporters that Trump promised him control of HHS. Trump said publicly before Election Day that he would give Kennedy a big role in his administration, but he may have difficulty winning Senate confirmation for a Cabinet position.
While Trump has vowed to protect Medicare and said he supports funding home care benefits, he’s been less specific about his intentions for Medicaid, which provides coverage to lower-income and disabled people. Some health analysts expect the program will be especially vulnerable to spending cuts, which could help finance the extension of tax breaks that expire at the end of next year.
Possible changes include the imposition of work requirements on beneficiaries in some states. The administration and Republicans in Congress could also try to revamp the way Medicaid is funded. Now, the federal government pays states a variable percentage of program costs. Conservatives have long sought to cap the federal allotments to states, which critics say would lead to draconian cuts.
“Medicaid will be a big target in a Trump administration,” said Larry Levitt, executive vice president for health policy at KFF, a health information nonprofit that includes KFF Health News.
Less clear is the potential future of reproductive health rights.
Trump has said decisions about abortion restrictions should be left to the states. Thirteen states ban abortion with few exceptions, while 28 others restrict the procedure based on gestational duration, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research and policy organization focused on advancing reproductive rights. Trump said before the election that he would not sign a national abortion ban.
State ballot measures to protect abortion rights were adopted in seven states, including Missouri, which Trump won by about 18 points, according to preliminary AP reports. Abortion rights measures were rejected by voters in Florida, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Trump could move to restrict access to abortion medications, used in more than half of abortions, either by withdrawing the FDA’s authorization for the drugs or by enforcing a 19th-century law, the Comstock Act, that abortion opponents say bans their shipment. Trump has said he generally would not use the law to ban mail delivery of the drugs.
Sen. Aisha Wahab (D-Hayward) and Assemblymember
President-elect Donald Trump prepares to deliver his victory speech at an election night event in West Palm Beach, Florida. (CHIP SOMODEVILLA/GETTY
How Research Can Help Us Better Understand and Support Early Childhood Educators
By Usma Mohamed, Ed.D.,
Council for Professional Recognition Experts have highlighted research for many years that stresses how the most important part of education success relates to the quality of the teaching in the classroom. RAND reports that “When it comes to student performance on reading and math tests, teachers are estimated to have two to three times the effect of any other school factor, including services, facilities, and even leadership.” Quality teaching matters as much in early childhood education as it does in K-12 classrooms. In fact, the effort to better understand and support early childhood educators is growing.
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) released research, in collaboration with The Education Trust, that looked at the responses, reactions, and recommendations from early childhood educators of color; the report examined the “structures, supports, and funding needed to support early childhood educators in increasing their educational qualifications, without deepening existing divisions along racial, geographic, socioeconomic, and linguistic lines.” The report, “Increasing Qualifications, Centering Equity: Experiences and Advice from Early Childhood Educators of Color,” includes participants’ initial reactions to the “prospect of earning a credential or degree; their reflections on their experiences; and their recommendations to policymakers on how to support this transition to increased qualifications for others.” The findings from the report
Early Childhood Educators
stated that when policies change so that credentials and/ or degrees become requirements, education systems have an obligation to support early childhood educators of color in tangible ways that respond to their expressed strengths and needs.
These supports include financial, workplace, higher education, and personal so that the leaders can maintain and grow workforce diversity. The need for research in this area continues to grow. This month the Council for
Professional Recognition announced it had selected The Stanford Center on Early Childhood at Stanford University to conduct the most extensive and in-depth research project ever undertaken in the nearly 50-year history of the Child Development Associate® (CDA) credential™. The study will seek to understand the ways CDA has impacted the early childhood workforce. “Understanding the Impact of the Child Development Associate® Credential on Educator Outcomes” will also aim to identify opportunities to further bolster the effectiveness of the CDA credentialing process and support career pathways and trajectories for early educators.
The Council administers the CDA, the most widely recognized credential in early childhood education (ECE). To date, over 1 million CDA credentials have been issued around the world. The CDA is a key steppingstone on the path of career advancement in ECE and is based on a core set of competency standards that guide early childhood professionals toward becoming qualified educators of young children. Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr., CEO of the Council, says, “This announcement highlights the Council’s commitment to taking our research capabilities and insights to the next level. Research has always been at the forefront of our efforts, including through our CDA Holder Survey and the Reimagining the CDA Process Initiative. We’re proud the CDA continues to attract new interest, and this research will help us provide even more data and understanding at this critical time for early childhood education.” Dr. Moore says the Council’s
Director of Psychometrics and Research, Dr. Richard S. Brown, led the intense review process for a research partner and will oversee the project and others as the Council’s research initiatives continue to expand. Dr. Philip Fisher, Director of the Stanford Center on Early Childhood, and Excellence in Learning Professor at the Graduate School of Education at Stanford University, says, “This study is a critical first step in evaluating the CDA that will yield important learnings to advance the Council for Professional Recognition’s ongoing evaluation and research efforts. Given CDA’s history and prevalence, our findings will be meaningful to both the Council for Professional Recognition and the entire early childhood sector. Our approach, grounded in centering participant voice, adeptly aligns with the Council’s values of listening, learning, and putting stakeholders first.” Dr. Fisher and his team will use the Continuous Improvement Rapid Cycle Learning and Evaluation (CIRCLE) framework, a robust evaluation methodology. The framework will weave together multiple data sources (quantitative and open-ended response surveys, focus groups, and interviews) to not only quantify CDA impact but also capture the lived experiences of educators as they relate to CDA. The research will examine educators who’ve attained the CDA as well as those who have not. The Council estimates the research will take at least two years to complete.
Move, Play and Learn at Home
By SHAPE America
SHAPE America (the Society of Health and Physical
Educators) serves as the voice for 200,000+ health and physical education professionals across the United States and recognizes the importance of early childhood education. It suggests these activities to help teach families the importance of physical activity for young children.
SHAPE America offers a variety of ideas, strategies, information, and resources for parents to use the space within their homes, the materials they have, and their limited time to model and encourage physical activity.
Here’s an idea for infants (age 2 months or when the child can lie on their tummy and hold up his/her head):
Setting The Adult lies on his/her back on the floor with the baby lying on top of the adult, facing each other. Place blankets or pillows around the sides of the adult so there is something soft for the baby to touch as the adult rolls from side to side.
Description As you are lying on your back on the floor, place the infant on your tummy, so that the child is facing you. Begin by holding the child with both of your hands on his/ her back. Gently roll your body from side to side. This will cause the child to explore using his/her body to maintain a balanced position, thus contracting many muscles. As
the child gains more control, let go little by little, to the point where you are barely holding on to the child as you gently roll from side to side. As the child gets older, you can make this a bit more “rough and tumble” by holding onto the child and increasing your rolling motion from side to side. As you play this game, make the sounds of an airplane engine taking off and banking through the air.
Learning Outcomes
Large Motor Skills: The child begins to gain voluntary control of arm movements, using arms, legs, and torso to maintain balance.
Social Emotional Development: The child displays pleasure in interacting with familiar adults, and engaging in social games through playful, back-and-forth interactions. It’s important to know that balance requires the use of many different parts of the body at one time. To fully balance, the body must learn to work its different parts together, contracting and relaxing various muscles to achieve the desired posture. As infants lay on their tummies and move their arms and legs, they work very hard, contracting numerous muscles while relaxing others, allowing them to achieve the constantly changing postures while achieving some sense of balance.
Movement Milestone
Most children can lie on their tummies and hold up their heads to look around by the age of 1-4 months. Here’s
a pre-K activity that teaches families the importance of physical activity for young children.
Get ready
Space: Outdoors
Stuff: Your imagination
Time: Playing after school, weekend fun
Get set
Throw a leaf or bunch of leaves up in the air and watch them float through space. Talk about how they move high and low and fast and slow. Some leaves even twist and twirl as they float down toward the ground.
Go Now it is your turn. Use your imagination to pretend you are a leaf that has just fallen from a tree. Float all over space. Dart high and low, fast and slow, twist and twirl until you reach the ground. Try it again but this time pretend to be a very small leaf or a very large leaf. Help your children grow and learn by providing opportunities for both movement and creativity. Children will improve their thinking and movement skills while getting much-needed physical activity. Extend the activity above by pretending to move like other things you may see in nature — jump like a frog, fly like an eagle, roll like a rock, or flow like a stream. Act out a few examples with your child and then let your child lead the activity
Little girl playing doctor while listening to her mother’s chest (Photo Credit by peoplelmages)