Happy Thankgiving
Thanksgiving Travel Expected to Break Records Nationwide
By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
According to AAA, nearly 80 million Americans are gearing up to travel for Thanksgiving, setting a new record for holiday travel. This year’s projections surpass last year’s by 1.7 million travelers, marking the busiest Thanksgiving travel period in history. The travel window spans from November 26 to December 2, with significant increases seen across all modes of transportation.
AAA reports that 71.7 million people will travel by car, a 1.9% increase from last year. That surpasses prepandemic levels, making it the largest volume of road travelers recorded. Air travel is also expected to set a new high, with 5.84 million people flying domestically, a 2.1% rise from 2023. Meanwhile, alternative forms of travel, including trains, buses, and cruises, are seeing a nearly 9% jump, largely driven by the resurgence of cruising. Planning is critical this year, with peak congestion expected on key days leading up to Thanksgiving. Monday, November 25, and Tuesday, November 26, will see some of the worst delays, especially between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. On Wednesday, November 27, AAA said travelers should also expect significant afternoon congestion. For those looking to avoid delays, Thanksgiving Day offers the best opportunity for smooth road travel. Returning home on Sunday, December 1, will require an early start, as the afternoon is projected to be heavily congested nationwide. Monday, December 2, will also see delays, particularly during traditional commute hours.
Transportation analytics firm INRIX details the specific metro areas and routes where congestion will be most severe. In the DMV region, traffic along US-50 East from Washington, D.C., to Annapolis is expected to peak on Tuesday, November 26, at 4:30 p.m., with travel times extending to an hour and 31 minutes, an increase of 120% above normal. In New York, the Long Island Expressway heading east to the Hamptons will experience the worst delays on Tuesday at 4:30 p.m., with travel times reaching three hours and 27 minutes, 133% above average. Los Angeles drivers on I-5 North to Bakersfield should prepare for heavy delays on Wednesday evening, with traffic 111% worse than usual. Congestion is also expected to impact major metros like Atlanta, Chicago, and Philadelphia during peak travel times.
Gas prices are expected to relieve road trippers. The national average could dip below $3 per gallon, the lowest Thanksgiving gas prices since 2021. Drivers in states east of the Rockies may find prices ranging from $2.25 to $2.50 per gallon. AAA’s travel data reveals that warm-weather destinations remain the most popular for domestic travelers this Thanksgiving. Florida cities such as Orlando, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa top the list, along with sunny locations like Las Vegas and Honolulu. Internationally, Cancun, Punta Cana, and European cities like Paris and Rome are among the most popular destinations.
Airports will be just as busy, with TSA forecasting the heaviest travel days on Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and Sunday afterward. Travelers are advised to arrive at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international departures. Parking reservations are recommended at airports like DCA and Dulles, while BWI offers real-time updates on garage occupancy.
INRIX transportation analyst Bob Pishue has advised travelers to use real-time traffic tools and avoid peak travel times whenever possible. With record-setting numbers expected, Pishue and other experts shared that patience, and planning will be essential for a smooth holiday journey.
“This is especially important for drivers in metropolitan areas like Boston, New York, LA, Seattle, and Washington, DC, where traffic is expected to be more than double what it typically is on a normal day,” Pishue noted.
Further, “Thanksgiving remains the busiest holiday for travel,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel.
“This year, we’re witnessing record numbers across all categories as families and friends prioritize time together.”
Calif. Leaders Urge Restraint; Commit to Protecting Families
on an array of charges that include sex trafficking and racketeering. Both have pleaded not guilty.
Williams was also overseeing a case involving an Iranian man who was charged in a plot to assassinate then-candidate Trump earlier this year. In his statement, Williams called his decision to step down "bittersweet."
By Antonio Ray Harvey California
Black Media
Following the non-partisan Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) announcement last week that California faces a $2 Billion deficit next year, legislative leaders are urging restraint and committing to focus on issues important to working families.
“The Assembly Budget Committee looks forward to crafting a budget that protects core programs, prioritizes accountability, safeguards California values, and focuses on the most important issues facing working families,” said Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino), Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee, On Nov. 20, the LAO released its “The 2025-26 Budget: California’s Fiscal Outlook” forecasting a budget deficit that pales in comparison to last year’s projection, which was estimated at more than $50 billion.
This fiscal budget for July 1, 2025, is “roughly
balanced” with an estimated $2 billion shortfall, analysts from LAO shared during a virtual news conference that was held the same day the report was released.
LAO analyst Gabe Petek, who led the discussion, said the Legislature has taken steps to put the state on solid financial footing for the next fiscal year by making “proactive decisions.” However, the report warns that spending in the future will be “restrained.”
“We describe the state’s budget condition as being in fair shape, Petek said. The LAO operates as the “eyes and ears” of the Legislature to ensure that the executive branch implements legislative policy in a cost-efficient and effective manner.
State government took several actions to address last year’s budget shortfall, including making spending related resolutions amounting to about $11 billion. The state also raised about $15 billion in all other solutions,
“It is bitter in the sense that I am leaving my dream job, leading an institution I love that is filled with the finest public servants in the world. It is sweet in that I am confident I am leaving at a time when the Office is functioning at an incredibly high level — upholding and exceeding its already high standard of excellence, integrity, and independence,” he said. Williams’ deputy, Edward Y. Kim, will become acting U.S. attorney after his departure. Trump announced earlier this month he would be nominating his former Securities and Exchange Commission head Jay Clayton to head the office.
stubborn challenges in others. This crisis requires a crisis mindset, and people are dying on our watch. We need to address this with the urgency it demands.”
As people who love real estate and pop culture in equal measure, we’ve seen our fair share of multimillion-dollar celebrity properties go on the market. But that’s the thing about Snoop’s crib: It’s not a multimillion-dollar house. In
If you look at the rapper’s home-buying history, you’ll see that most of his properties were purchased for under a million. The fact that Snoop has more budget-friendly abodes is relatable, refreshing, and honestly? Good fiscal sense. “Smart use of money,” an Instagrammer commented. “Why go crazy buying a house with 42 bedrooms when you only use one?” Zillow’s listing also reveals that this home is rather simple in decor, too. The neutral interiors feature wallto-wall carpet, bathroom tiles with heavy grout, ceiling fans, and a wood-covered kitchen. The internet was quick to point out that the simple interiors aren’t exactly what you think of when envisioning an iconic rapper’s home. “Can’t even imagine Snoop living there,” one person quipped. “Nice ‘lil modest home so the Dogg can just chill,” another person said. It’s worth noting that there are some claims Snoop never lived here—implying that he might’ve purchased this for a family member—but if he did actually spend time in these Douglasville digs? Well, we’d imagine his bestie Martha Stewart would have plenty of decorating tips to share.
15 Democrats Join Republicans in Backing Bill Critics Call a Dictator’s Dream
By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA
Newswire Senior National Correspondent
Donald Trump has openly declared he would rule as a dictator from his first day in office. Astonishingly, 15 House Democrats joined Republicans in passing a bill many say could empower Trump to do just that. The Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act (H.R. 9495) grants the Treasury secretary unilateral authority to label nonprofits as “terrorist supporting organizations” and strip them of their tax-exempt status without due process. The measure passed the House on Thursday, Nov. 21, in a 219-184 vote.
Critics argue the legislation opens the door for abuse, with devastating consequences for free speech and democracy. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, called the bill a step toward authoritarianism. “A tyrant tightens his grip not just by seizing power but by demanding new powers and when those who can stop him willingly cede and bend to his will.”
The provision has been compared to laws used by authoritarian regimes in countries like Hungary and Nicaragua, where similar measures have silenced dissent
and forced aid organizations to close. Critics say it would allow any president to target nonprofits arbitrarily, bypassing judicial safeguards already in place.
The bill combines unrelated measures and includes tax-relief provisions for Americans held unjustly abroad.
Opponents note that those provisions could easily be passed as standalone legislation without granting the Treasury Department new powers.
“This is not about fighting terrorism—it’s about
handing Donald Trump the authority to decide who is a terrorist,” Doggett said. “Our democracy is under threat.”
Democratic Support Sparks Outrage
Despite clear warnings, 15 Democrats supported the measure, joining Republicans to advance what civil rights advocates have described as a “dictator’s dream.” Reps. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, and Jared Golden, D-Maine, are among those facing backlash for their votes. Critics have also called out House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., for failing to rally his caucus more forcefully against the bill, though he voted against it.
Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., expressed disbelief at the decision to hand such power to an incoming Trump administration. “The road to fascism is paved with a million little votes that slowly erode our democracy and make it easier to go after anyone who disagrees with the government,” McGovern remarked.
Broad Criticism of Dangerous Consequences
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), along with over 180 organizations including Planned Parenthood and the NAACP, issued a scathing rebuke of the bill. They warned it could allow the Treasury to shut down nonprofits
and aid organizations with little to no evidence.
Abby Maxman, CEO of Oxfam America, said similar laws in Nicaragua forced humanitarian groups to cease operations within days, leaving thousands without essential aid. “We have policies in place to ensure the assistance we provide gets to those in need,” Maxman remarked to reporters. “But all it takes is a sentence or a headline to associate an organization like ours with accusations that could ruin us.”
Some of the bill’s proponents have even acknowledged the risks. Rep. Brad Schneider, D-Ill., proposed amendments to strengthen safeguards for nonprofits but stopped short of opposing the measure entirely. Critics, however, remain adamant that the bill represents an unnecessary and dangerous expansion of executive power.
“This legislation is not about terrorism,” Doggett concluded as the bill now heads to the Senate. “It’s about empowering one man to destroy the organizations and voices he dislikes. This bill hands over unchecked power. That’s not democracy—it’s tyranny.”
Urge Biden to Use Clemency Power to Address Mass Incarceration Before Leaving Office
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06), Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), and Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA05) led 60 of their colleagues in sending a letter to President Biden urging him to use his executive clemency power in the final months of his presidency to reunite families, address longstanding injustices in our legal system, and set our nation on the path toward ending mass incarceration.
The lawmakers hosted a press conference earlier today to discuss the letter. A full video of their press conference is available here and photos are available here.
“Now is the time to use your clemency authority to rectify unjust and unnecessary criminal laws passed by Congress and draconian sentences given by judges,” the lawmakers wrote in their letter. “The grant of pardons and commutations and the restoration of rights will undoubtedly send a powerful message across the country in support of fundamental fairness and furthering meaningful criminal justice reform.”
Mass incarceration remains a persistent, systemic injustice that erodes the soul of America. Our nation has
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the highest incarceration rate in the world, with nearly two million people locked in jails and prisons throughout the country. The extreme use of incarceration has resulted in one in two adults having had an incarcerated family member. People of color are disproportionately put behind bars, along with individuals from low-income communities, LGBTQIA+ folks, and those with disabilities. The bloated prison system reflects and emboldens biases that undermine the ideals of our nation and diminish trust in the rule of law. Mass incarceration attacks the most vulnerable Americans, thereby destabilizing families and inflicting intergenerational trauma.
In their letter to President Biden, the lawmakers praised the President’s efforts to create a fair and just criminal legal system by pardoning people convicted of simple marijuana possession and LGBTQ+ former servicemembers and urged the President to use his clemency powers to help broad classes of people and cases, including the elderly and chronically ill, those on death row, people with unjustified sentencing disparities, and women who were punished for defending themselves against their abusers.
The lawmakers also outlined the fiscal toll of the growing mass incarceration crisis.
“You have the support of millions of people across the country who have felt the harms of mass incarceration: young children longing to hug their grandparents, people who have taken responsibility for their mistakes, and those
who simply were never given a fair chance,” the lawmakers wrote. “These are the people seeking help that only you can provide through the use of your presidential clemency power.”
Joining Representatives Clyburn, Pressley, and Scanlon in sending the letter are Representatives Joyce Beatty, Sanford Bishop, Shontel Brown, Cori Bush, André Carson, Troy Carter, Yvette Clarke, Jasmine Crockett, Valerie Foushee, Al Green, Jahana Hayes, Steven Horsford, Jonathan Jackson, Pramila Jayapal, Henry Johnson, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Robin Kelly, Summer Lee, Jennifer McClellan, Gregory Meeks, Delia Ramirez, Jan Schakowsky, Robert Scott, Terri Sewell, Marilyn Strickland, Bennie Thompson, Rashida Tlaib, and Bonnie Watson Coleman.
The lawmakers’ letter is supported by the American Civil Liberties Union; Center for Popular Democracy; Last Prisoner Project; Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law; Death Penalty Action; The National Council for Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Women and Girls; The Faith Leaders of Color Coalition; Second Chance Justice of MCAN; JustLeadershipUSA; FAMM; The Episcopal Church; The Bambi Fund; Free Billie Allen Campaign; People’s Coalition for Safety and Freedom; Prophetic Resistance Boston; and Families Against Mandatory Minimums.
Gov. Newsom’s New $827.5M Homelessness Plan Directs Funding to Counties and Cities
Angeles, which will receive $164.3 million for the city’s ongoing efforts to combat homelessness. Mayor Karen Bass, who joined Newsom at the event, highlighted the collaboration between city, county, and state officials, as well as the progress her administration has made.
“The only way we can show results is through a comprehensive approach,” Bass said. “Groups like The Downtown Women’s Center work to rapidly rehouse Angelenos and provide comprehensive services. This morning, I was in the Pico-Union area for an Inside Safe operation, where we moved people from tents and RVs off the streets and into housing. We housed over 30 Angelenos today.” Bass emphasized the need for unified efforts, adding,
“We know that there are areas of dysfunction, and part of our work has been to bring every level of government together. We have to move beyond finger-pointing to real partnership.”
Newsom highlighted the need for regional collaboration: “This crisis doesn’t stop at city or county lines. It demands a coordinated, statewide effort to create real, lasting change.” San Francisco is set to receive $43.32 million, which will be used for housing-first initiatives and comprehensive support services for the unhoused population.
Alameda County, with its $55.9 million allocation, will also focus on permanent housing solutions and strategies to address systemic causes of homelessness.
Sacramento will receive $53.21 million, which will be dedicated to developing permanent housing solutions and integrated support services to address the city’s growing homelessness crisis
The San Diego region, awarded $58.84 million, aims to expand shelter capacity and ensure long-term housing stability.
The Inland Empire, encompassing Riverside and San Bernardino counties, will receive $33.17 million to implement regional solutions, including shelter expansion and supportive services
Gustavo Velasquez, Director of the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) emphasized that the funding comes with strict accountability requirements.
“Our HCD team is honored to take on this expanded role in identifying and supporting effective regional solutions for Californians struggling with unsheltered homelessness,” Velasquez said. “Not only will this funding provide additional resources, but with the leadership of the Legislature and the administration, this program
also ensures that every dollar spent delivers meaningful outcomes, with a clear focus on reducing homelessness to create lasting change. HCD will continue to apply our strong focus on accountability to maximize this critical investment for our state.”
The HHAP grants are a crucial part of California’s $40 billion investment in tackling homelessness, complementing initiatives like Project Homekey, which has successfully created thousands of permanent housing units, and the Encampment Resolution Fund, aimed at clearing dangerous encampments while providing support services. Earlier this month, Newsom allocated $131 million specifically for encampment resolutions across the state.
Newsom and other speakers emphasized that this funding is part of a comprehensive and unified effort to make meaningful and lasting changes across the state. Additionally, Newsom recently announced $91 million to support Native American communities through the Tribal Homekey and Tribal HHAP programs. This funding includes $71 million for 172 permanent housing units in rural areas and $20 million for culturally responsive homelessness interventions, addressing the unique challenges faced by 37 federally recognized tribes.
Calif. Leaders Urge Restraint; Commit to Protecting Families
According to the Fiscal Outlook report, the state faces some key uncertainties in the spending estimates. How Much healthcare minimum wage ultimately increases costs, the rapid growth of the senior Medi-Cal population, and the implementation of reductions among state departments that produce cost-saving measures have yet to be determined by the LAO.
“The extent of those savings is still unknown,” the report stated. Assembly Republican Minority Leader James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) weighed in on the LAO’s prognosis of the state budget.
“California is the highest-tax state in the country,
Representative James Clyburn
Illinois Supreme Court Overturns Jussie
Smollett Conviction in Hate Crime Hoax Case
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
The Illinois Supreme Court has overturned actor Jussie Smollett’s conviction, ruling that his second prosecution for filing a false police report violated his constitutional rights. The court determined that Smollett was unjustly prosecuted after an earlier agreement with state prosecutors had resolved the charges.
In January 2019, Smollett reported being the victim of a racist and homophobic attack in downtown Chicago. He claimed two men physically assaulted him while shouting slurs and declaring, “This is MAGA country.” The report initially drew national attention and widespread condemnation of hate crimes.
Authorities later accused Smollett of orchestrating the attack, alleging he recruited two brothers, Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, to stage the incident. He was charged with felony disorderly conduct for filing a false police report. In a 2019 resolution, prosecutors dropped the charges after Smollett forfeited his $10,000 bond and completed community service. However, public backlash
Kendrick Lamar Surprises with New Album
By JONATHAN LANDRUM Jr.
AP Entertainment Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Kendrick Lamar gave music listeners an early holiday present Friday with the surprise drop of a new album.
The Grammy winner's 12-track “GNX” is his first release since 2022's “Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers” and his sixth studio album overall. It also comes just months after his rap battle with Drake.
Lamar first teased the album with a cover art and video snippet of “GNX,” which features multi-instrumentalist Jack Antonoff as a co-producer on every track except for “Peekaboo.” Other notable producers include Sounwave and DJ Mustard, who both contributed production on the hit “Not Like Us,” the ubiquitous diss track emanating from the Drake feud. Lamar's former Top Dawg Entertainment labelmate SZA appears on a couple songs including “Gloria” and “Luther,” which also features sampled vocals from Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn through “If This World Were Mine."
On the opening track “Wacced Out Murals,” Lamar raps about cruising in his Buick GNX (Grand National Experimental) car with listening to Anita Baker. He brings up Snoop Dogg posting Drake's AI-assisted “Taylor Made Freestyle” diss track on social media and Nas congratulating Lamar for being selected to headline February's Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans.
Lamar also shows admiration for Lil Wayne, who expressed his hurt feelings after being passed over as the
Simone
headliner in his hometown. Lamar, 37, has experienced massive success since his debut album “good kid, m.A.A.d city” in 2012. Since then, he’s accumulated 17 Grammy wins and became the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize for his 2017 album “DAMN.”
The surprise release caps a big year for Lamar, who was featured on the song “Like That” with Future and Metro Boomin — a track that spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 this year.
Lamar is up for seven Grammys, fueled by “Not Like Us,” which earned nods for record and song of the year, rap song, music video as well as best rap performance. He has two simultaneous entries in the latter category, a career first: “Like That” is up for best rap performance and best rap song, too. “GNX” track list 1. “Wacced Out Murals” 2. “Squabble Up” 3. “Luther” (feat. SZA) 4. “Man at the Garden” 5. “Hey Now” 6. “Reincarnated” 7. “TV Off” 8. “Dodger Blue” 9. “Peekaboo” 10. “Heart Pt. 6” 11. “GNX” 12. “Gloria” (feat. SZA)
led to appointing a special prosecutor who revived the case.
Smollett was convicted on five counts of felony disorderly conduct in 2021, based largely on testimony from the Osundairo brothers, who said Smollett planned and directed the staged assault. He was sentenced to five months in jail in 2022 but served just six days before being released pending appeal.
On Thursday, Nov. 21, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled 4-2 in Smollett’s favor, citing violations of his due process rights. “We hold that a second prosecution under these circumstances is a due process violation, and we therefore reverse defendant’s conviction,” Justice Elizabeth M. Rochford wrote.
Nenye Uche, Smollett’s attorney, welcomed the ruling. “We are thankful to the Illinois Supreme Court for restoring order to Illinois’ criminal law jurisprudence,” Uche stated. “This decision is a victory for justice and due process.”
Smollett’s acting career began in childhood, with early roles in films such as The Mighty Ducks (1992) and North (1994). In the mid-1990s, he co-starred with his siblings on the sitcom On Our Own. After a hiatus,
Smollett returned to the spotlight as a musician, releasing the EP Poisoned Hearts Club in 2012, and as an actor in the independent film The Skinny.In 2015, Smollett achieved widespread recognition for portraying Jamal Lyon on the hit TV series Empire. Jamal, the openly gay son of music mogul Lucious Lyon, became a groundbreaking character for LGBTQ+ representation on television. Smollett also contributed original music to the show’s soundtrack, which became a commercial success. His performance earned him critical acclaim and a recording contract with Columbia Records.Smollett described his role on Empire as one of the highlights of his career, noting the impact it had on fans. “I received a letter from a kid that said Jamal gave him the courage to come out to his parents. It touched me deeply, and it’s an honor to help people,” he said in a 2015 interview.While his legal troubles resulted in Jamal being written out of Empire during its final season, Smollett’s contributions to the show remained significant. His attorneys hope he can now rekindle his career.“This case has always been about protecting constitutional rights,” Uche remarked. “Today, justice has prevailed.”
By JONATHAN LANDRUM Jr. AP Entertainment Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Snoop Dogg and Simone Biles turned their Olympic bond from this summer’s Paris Games into a new challenge: The superstar tandem will team up on NBC’s “The Voice.”
Biles will join Snoop for an episode on the reality competition television series, airing Monday. As a coach on the show, the rap star enlisted Biles as a mentor in the playoff round to help advise five vocalists who are vying for a spot in the live shows.
For Snoop and Biles, their pairing was a superb match for the sports and music icons — who carried their effortless chemistry from the Olympics to the TV set of “The Voice.”
“We were able to riff off each other and give the artists the best insight going into the next round,” Biles told The Associated Press in a recent interview with Snoop after both finished filming the episode in Los Angeles.
“It was pretty easy, simple,” added Biles, the most decorated gymnast of all-time who won four medals — three of them gold — at the recent Olympics. “We’re both very mellow. But if we need to bring that energy up, then we can. For us, it was about instilling confidence going into the next week.”
Biles might be famous for her athletic prowess, but she was able to relate to the music contestants — from one competitor to another.
“These are the learning steps: Learn, process, go back in and work,” she said. “They all have the vocal talent. It’s about harnessing that, knowing when to bring it out and which songs to sing and which genre you fit in. And what you want your legacy to be. This is truly a special show as well as the judging. They don’t get to see the physical appearance first. It’s all off of ears, listening and putting their craft together as well.”
Despite having different career paths, Snoop and Biles share a mutual respect for each other’s ability to shine on
the biggest stages.
“We have such diverse careers. But the things that we dealt with, they’re dealing with now,” said Snoop, the ultra-smooth entertainer who took on a starring role as a special correspondent in NBC’s record-breaking coverage. He’s a coach on “The Voice” along with Michael Bublé, Reba McEntire and Gwen Stefani, with each attempting to discover and coach the next singing phenomenon.
Snoop said they felt the need to instill wisdom and confidence in each participant.
“We have the best experience and knowledge to give to these performers,” he said. “She’s a performer. I’m a performer. We’ve performed under extreme conditions. We always do our best. But sometimes things happen behind closed doors that you don’t know about. So, we’re able to speak to those things and give them real reassurance.”
During the Olympics, Biles and Snoop had a few viral moments. Both caught up with each other to cheer on Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone during her 400-meter hurdles race; he gifted Biles’ father, Ronald Biles, with a Death Row Records gold necklace for his 75th birthday; and he was spotted dancing in the crowd during the women's gymnastics qualifying round as Biles and her teammate Jordan Chiles joined in.
While on set, Biles was often all smiles while watching Snoop in his charismatic element.
“I knew Snoop would stay true and authentic to himself here on ‘The Voice.’” she said. “It’s nice that you don’t have to fit a mold. There’s a space for everyone.” Snoop said it made sense for both to work together on the episode.
“This is family. It feels good,” Snoop said. “(Biles) can do anything she wants to do. She picks and chooses what she wants to do. We’re at that point of our careers right now. It has to feel good. It can’t be forced or I’m not doing it. Period, point, blank.”
Medicaid Faces Uncertain Future as Republicans Target Program Under Trump Administration
By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA
Newswire Senior National Correspondent
Medicaid, a critical lifeline for millions of Americans, faces an uncertain future as Republicans prepare to take control of Washington. The program, along with the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), provides health and long-term care coverage to 80 million lowincome children, pregnant women, adults, seniors, and people with disabilities, is under scrutiny with proposed funding cuts and new eligibility requirements.
In Washington, D.C., Medicaid and CHIP collectively covered 260,218 residents as of June 2024, with total spending reaching $4.2 billion in fiscal year 2022. The federal government accounted for 78.2% of these costs. Since pandemic-era continuous enrollment provisions ended in March 2023, the District has disenrolled 67,619 individuals, even as total enrollment remains 7.7% higher than pre-pandemic levels. These numbers reflect growing pressures on state budgets and federal support.
Nationally, Medicaid’s expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) added 23 million people to its rolls, but that growth has made it a target for Republican lawmakers. With President-elect Donald Trump returning to office, proposals to cut Medicaid funding and impose work requirements have resurfaced. These measures, they argue, could help fund the extension of tax cuts that primarily benefit corporations and the wealthy.
GOP Rep. Jodey Arrington of Texas, chair of the House Budget Committee, has described work requirements as “responsible and reasonable,” while Texas GOP Sen. John Cornyn has advocated for block grants to replace the current funding model. Critics caution that these changes could destabilize Medicaid, leaving states with significant funding gaps.
“If you want to avoid a debt spiral, there have got to be reforms made to federal health programs,” Brian Blase,
a former Trump adviser who supports reducing federal contributions to Medicaid expansion, told the New York Times. Proposals under discussion include lowering the federal match rate for expansion enrollees from 90% to as low as 40%, a move that could force some states to drop the program entirely.
Medicaid’s role in American healthcare is substantial. It supports nearly half of all children in the U.S., covers significant portions of mental health and nursing home care, and plays a vital part in managing chronic conditions.
In D.C., for instance, 95,577 Medicare beneficiaries and 71,021 enrollees in Medicare Part D also depend on Medicaid for supplemental support.
Advocates for the ACA’s expansion and consumer protections warn that cutting Medicaid would disproportionately harm vulnerable populations. “Without Medicaid coverage, you’ve got folks choosing between how to put food on the table or pay for their kids’ health care,” said Daniel Tsai, head of Medicaid at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
The appointment of Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead CMS signals the Trump administration’s intention to focus on cost reduction and fraud prevention. However, significant resistance is expected to sweeping cuts. In 2017, similar efforts met with public outcry, and polls show that over 70% of Americans support keeping Medicaid largely unchanged.
State officials are revisiting measures such as work requirements, which faced legal and logistical challenges during Trump’s first term. Arkansas saw thousands lose coverage due to work requirements before the court struck down the program. Georgia remains the only state that has implemented these requirements successfully.
The financial strain on states is already mounting, with federal Medicaid funding reduced by $60 billion for fiscal year 2024. Technical and administrative hurdles have left
eligible Americans needing more coverage, exacerbating the problem. Crystal Harp, a mother from Tennessee, described to the New York Times how Medicaid enabled her to manage her daughter’s rare epilepsy. “It’s unbearable to think about the medical debt we would be in if we did not have Medicaid,” she said.
As Republicans advance their policy agenda,
Medicaid’s future is in peril. With millions depending on the program for basic healthcare needs, the debates in
Special Prosecutors Drops Charges Against Trump
Helping President-elect to Avoid Legal Consequences Ahead of Second Term
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
President-elect Donald Trump is on course to avoid accountability for his alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and other legal battles, as Special Counsel Jack Smith on Monday, Nov. 25, moved to dismiss the four federal felony charges against him. The charges stemmed from Trump’s attempts to remain in power despite losing the election and his role in the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.
A grand jury initially indicted Trump in August 2023 for conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of an official proceeding, and conspiracy against rights. The indictment accused Trump of knowingly spreading false claims about voter fraud, pressuring then-Vice President Mike Pence to reject electoral votes, and orchestrating a plan to subvert the democratic process. Smith’s case marked a historic first— no former president had ever been criminally charged for seeking to retain power unlawfully.
However, the case stalled as Trump’s legal team successfully argued that the constitutional protections of presidential immunity barred his prosecution. In July 2024, the Supreme Court ruled in Trump’s favor, cementing the broad immunity application for sitting presidents. The ruling, combined with Trump’s victory in the 2024 election, has ensured that he will face no immediate legal repercussions.
Smith’s motion to dismiss echoed the Justice Department’s longstanding policy against prosecuting sitting presidents. “That prohibition is categorical and does not turn on the gravity of the crimes charged, the strength of the government’s proof, or the merits of the prosecution, which the government stands fully behind,” Smith wrote.
The motion comes as Trump was set to be sentenced
this month in New York on 34 felony convictions related to falsifying business records tied to a hush-money payment to adult film actor Stormy Daniels. That sentencing has been delayed indefinitely, and many legal experts believe it may never occur. Trump has also faced charges in Fulton County, Georgia, for an alleged attempt to overturn the 2020 election in the state, but the future of that case remains uncertain as his return to the presidency approaches. Meanwhile, Smith is expected to file a final report with Attorney General Merrick Garland before resigning. Garland has pledged to release the report publicly, but Trump’s incoming administration could delay or block its disclosure. Trump plans to install loyal allies at the Justice Department, including former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi as Attorney General. Bondi has vowed to investigate and prosecute those who brought cases against Trump, calling them members of a “deep state” conspiracy.
“The Department of Justice, the prosecutors will be prosecuted, the bad ones,” she declared last year after Trump’s indictment in Georgia. Her appointment would dramatically shift the DOJ’s focus under Trump’s administration. Many January 6 defendants continue to serve prison sentences for their roles in the Capitol attack. Some have expressed regret, admitting Trump’s false election fraud claims misled them. Meanwhile, Trump has promised to pardon many of those convicted, referring to them as “political prisoners” and “warriors.”
Trump will be sworn in on January 20, 2025, walking through the same Capitol tunnel where some of the most violent clashes of January 6 took place. “When he lost the 2020 race, Trump resorted to crimes to hold onto power,” Smith wrote in court filings.
Study Reveals States with Highest Consumer Debt as Holiday Spending Surges
By Stacy M. Brown
As the holiday season kicks off with Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Christmas shopping, a new study by MarketWatch Guides has identified the states with the highest consumer debt levels. The District of Columbia is top of the list, with an average debt per capita of $166,186. The study examined various financial factors, including personal and business bankruptcies, credit scores, total consumer debt, and debt per capita. Elevated costs of living, significant student loan burdens, and reliance on high-interest loans fuel D.C.’s high debt levels. Additionally, the District leads the nation in student loan debt per borrower, averaging $54,145. Colorado and Washington State rank second and third, with average debts of $154,481 and $150,462, respectively. Rising housing costs are a significant contributor in both states. In Colorado,
and
borrowing.
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
How Babies’ Brains Develop
By Katie Dukes Director of Early Childhood Policy, EdNC
When babies are born, their brains contain billions of neurons. But how those neurons interact — and what they can do as babies grow through childhood into adulthood — is largely shaped by their experiences in the first 1,000 days of life. The architecture of the brain is built in those first three years, creating a foundation that enables thinking, learning, and adapting over time. More than 85% of adult brain volume is built during this critical period. Luckily, we know exactly what infants and toddlers need to develop healthy brains that will set them up for a lifetime of wellbeing.
How to support brain development
Decades of research have identified several building blocks that are essential to constructing strong foundations for the brain in the first 1,000 days. Researchers agree that the cornerstone of healthy brain development is the formation of secure attachments between babies and the trusted and caring adults in their lives. Whether these caregivers are parents, kin (including friends and neighbors), or trained early childhood professionals, they should be “knowledgeable about how to support (babies’) development and learning and responsive to their progress,” says a report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Note the connection between caring and learning. Caring adults are crucial to developing the capacity for learning in the brains of infants and toddlers. In early childhood, care and learning were inseparable.
To strengthen the brain’s capacity for learning in the first 1,000 days, the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University has identified two key strategies that trusted adults can use — engaging in “serve and return” interactions and minimizing exposure to toxic stress. As researchers at the center explain, serve and return interactions occur when an infant or toddler “babbles, gestures, or cries, and an adult responds appropriately with eye contact, words, or a hug.” Engaging in service and return with caregivers helps babies and very young children build and strengthen neural connections related to communication and social skills in their developing brains. The absence of consistent serve and return exchanges can release potentially harmful stress hormones into the brains of infants and toddlers. And prolonged exposure to such hormones can result in what is known as “toxic stress.”
Minimizing exposure to toxic stress in the first 1,000 days is crucial for healthy brain development.
According to the Center on the Developing Child, typical causes of toxic stress during this period include “physical or emotional abuse, chronic neglect, caregiver substance abuse or mental illness, exposure to violence,
and/or the accumulated burdens of family economic hardship.” However, the center also points out that trusting relationships with adult caregivers can act as a buffer against these hardships. That’s why childcare providers — whether they are friends, family, and neighbors, or licensed homebased or center-based caregivers and educators — can be so essential in the lives of families who may be experiencing economic hardships such as food or housing insecurity. As Dr. Dana Suskind, a pediatric specialist and expert in early childhood brain development, writes in her book Parent Nation, “Loving (adults) do not need a PhD or expensive gadgets to do an excellent job at supporting early brain development and building our future citizens. They need easily acquired, basic knowledge about how to best foster critical neural connections.”
To that end, The Basics is an initiative that uses a public health approach to educate and empower caregivers about their role in healthy brain development. In addition to a wide array of online resources (some available in multiple languages), The Basics offers a printable one-pager that can be posted in homes, classrooms, pediatrician offices, or anywhere else caregivers may find themselves. Adults — including policymakers — who embrace the basic building blocks of healthy brain development for infants and toddlers, are helping build a foundation that will yield benefits well beyond the first 1,000 days.
Why support brain development
Many people, especially educators who work with children in kindergarten through third grade, can point to early learning as crucial for “school readiness,” but that term can be easily misunderstood. In EdNC’s many conversations with elementary educators, the vast majority say school readiness means young children are being prepared to participate in group learning. This includes having skills such as developing relationships with trusted adults outside their homes, sitting in a circle or standing in a line with other children, communicating about their wants and needs, sharing objects with others, fine motor control and knowing a little bit about how to regulate emotions. While school readiness may also include some basic academic skills, elementary educators assure EdNC that teaching children how to count, write, and spell is only possible when young learners arrive at school with the social and emotional skills that make them ready to learn. And it’s the brain development that occurs in the first 1,000 days that makes this possible. In addition to helping young students be school-ready, numerous studies have shown that early learning leads to better performance in third-grade math and reading tests. But the benefits of early learning don’t stop there — they last a lifetime.
Decades of studies have consistently shown that children who receive high-quality early learning have
better health, education, and earnings outcomes, and are less likely to be incarcerated or use government assistance programs throughout their lives. Nobel prize-winning economist James Heckman found that the highest rate of economic returns comes from the earliest investments in children. More specifically, investment in early care and learning yields a 13% annual return to society. As Suskind puts it, “What happens in the first three years of a child’s
life has lifelong consequences, for better or for worse. Those years represent an opportunity that won’t come again.” Babies born today are expected to live for almost eight decades, meaning they’ll likely see the 22nd century. But it’s the care and learning they receive in the next 1,000 days that provide the foundation for what they’ll build for themselves and our society.
A Racial Reckoning in Columbus, Ohio
By
I refuse to utter his name. Since the announcement of his Presidential
slurs, a ratchet display of pure hate—I just can’t. I am annoyed, but we knew this was coming. Classic American
terrorism, live and in color. And make no mistake: as “that man” ascends to his concocted throne, these events will only intensify.
Social media documented every angle of the chaos, showing what Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther called
a “cowardly display.” The mayor said he would not allow our neighbors to be “intimidated, threatened or harmed.” Governor Mike DeWine echoed this sentiment, posting on X, “We will not tolerate hate in Ohio.” Yet, despite these words of condemnation, the police did nothing. They were called to intervene but stood by as the violence unfolded. Ohio’s anti-KKK law explicitly bans masked groups from committing misdemeanors, with violations carrying felony-level penalties. Still, not one masked white nationalist was arrested—not even those who pepper-sprayed patrons during an altercation outside a local bar.
Let’s be clear: everyone has a right to their beliefs, even their bigotry. But harassment, intimidation, and violence are not rights—they are crimes.
Failing to act is more than negligence; it’s an invitation. Emboldened by inaction, white nationalist demonstrations are growing. According to the Anti-Defamation League, white supremacist-organized events hit a record high of 282 in 2023—a staggering 63% increase from the 173 incidents reported in 2022. These aren’t just statistics; they’re warnings. They’re flashing signals from a society on the verge of re-normalizing hate.
What will it take for this to stop?
The next day, a different group took to the same streets. This time, an influential group of Black men marched— unmasked and unafraid. They came not to threaten but to protect, peacefully standing as a barrier against hate. “We are seeing a lot more people blatant with their racism, their hatred, and it’s just sad,” Sean Walton, a local attorney, told NBC4. “Let’s figure out how to come together and how to lead and love. There’s so much fear, and I think it’s important that we practice community care.” This is what leadership looks like—unifying, protective, and restorative.
America has a problem. And like those in Columbus, citizens must demand action from politicians who ignore the very laws designed to protect us. Words of condemnation are not enough. The failure to enforce legal protections only signals complicity.
Let me be crystal clear: Black women may have lost this battle, but not the war. We said what we said—we are not going back. Not just for us but for generations who refuse to inherit a legacy of hate.
Momentum Builds for Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Ahead of Centennial
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior
National Correspondent
As the 100th anniversary of Shirley Chisholm’s birth approaches on November 30, a growing effort to honor her legacy is taking shape. Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to Congress in 1968 and a trailblazer for equality and justice, remains a powerful symbol of courage and leadership. The Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act, spearheaded by Democratic Sen. Laphonza Butler, is moving closer to passage with bipartisan support. Butler, the bill’s primary sponsor, has garnered backing from key lawmakers, including Democratic Sens. Cory Booker of New Jersey and Kirsten Gillibrand of New York. The legislation seeks to award Chisholm one of the nation’s highest civilian honors, cementing her place as one of the most transformative figures in American history.
Carlo Jerome Juntilla, Education and Labor Policy Advisor for Butler, acknowledged the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) for its critical role in advancing the bill.
The NNPA is the trade association of the more than 200 African American-owned newspapers and media companies that comprise the 197-year-old Black Press of America.
“Thanks to your efforts, we have secured the necessary number of co-sponsors to move the bill forward, and we are now in a strong position to pass it,” Juntilla wrote in an email to the NNPA. “With the late Shirley Chisholm’s
100th birthday approaching on November 30, we are looking for ways to collaborate further in order to elevate her legacy.”
Juntilla also emphasized the importance of continuing to amplify Chisholm’s story through additional collaborations, including op-eds and media campaigns. Juntilla even noted the value of highlighting Butler and Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), who is leading the effort in the House.
NNPA President & CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. and members of the NNPA’s main office had organized a meeting with Butler where they discussed the honor for Chisholm. “The legacy of the Honorable Shirley Chisholm lives radiantly today and for generations to come,” Chavis remarked. “The NNPA stands resolutely in support of the leadership of The Honorable Laphonsa Butler to bestow to Chisholm with the Congressional honors that she deserves.” Bobby Henry, Chairman of the NNPA, also expressed the organization’s unwavering support for the bill and its significance.
“As Chairman of the NNPA, I am honored to stand in support of the Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act, a vital recognition of one of the most transformative figures in American history,” said Henry, who also publishes the Westside Gazette Newspaper in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. “Shirley Chisholm’s legacy as the first African American woman elected to Congress and
a fearless advocate for equality and justice continues to inspire generations.
“We commend Senator Laphonza Butler and Representative Barbara Lee for championing this historic legislation and for their commitment to ensuring Chisholm’s contributions are celebrated and remembered. As we approach the centennial of her birth, the NNPA is proud to collaborate in elevating her enduring impact on our nation and the world.”
Chisholm’s groundbreaking career includes her historic 1972 presidential campaign, during which she became the first Black woman to seek the nomination of a major political party. Her slogan, “Unbought and Unbossed,” embodied her commitment to justice and refusal to conform to traditional political norms. Butler, who made history herself as the first Black lesbian to serve in the U.S. Senate, has made the bill a top priority. With growing bipartisan support and co-sponsors from across the political spectrum, the legislation represents a unifying effort to honor Chisholm’s legacy.
“Shirley Chisholm’s legacy continues to inspire generations,” Henry said. “As we approach the centennial of her birth, we must ensure her enduring impact is celebrated, remembered, and elevated for the nation and the world to see.”
Caregiver Assisting Infant
Black leaders in Columbus Ohio - Photo Credit Attorney Sean Walton
Dawn Montgomery Culture Critic
California Capitol News You Might Have Missed Political Playback:
By Bo Tefu, Joe W. Bowers Jr. and Antonio Ray Harvey California Black Media California’s 2025-26 Budget:
School Funding Expected to Increase by an Estimated $1.5 Billion
The California Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) recently published its fiscal outlook for the 2025-26 budget, forecasting a $1.5 billion increase in the minimum guarantee for funding public schools and community colleges. This raises the total budget to $116.8 billion, a 1.3% increase over last year’s budget. While the additional funding offers opportunities to address educational inequities, challenges such as declining enrollment and the expiration of pandemic-era funding create uncertainty for schools, particularly those serving Black and other underserved communities.
The projected budget includes a 2.46% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), totaling $2.4 billion, to help schools manage operational costs.
The Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), which prioritizes resources for schools with high populations of low-income and English learner students, will benefit from these adjustments. Funding also supports the expansion of transitional kindergarten, a program designed to increase access to early education for all four-year-olds. This initiative receives an $800 million adjustment as part of the state’s ongoing investment.
Despite these funding increases, systemic challenges remain. Enrollment has declined due to lower birth rates and increased migration out of the state, directly affecting funding levels. While the transitional kindergarten expansion may offer a short-term enrollment boost, the long-term trend of declining student populations threatens financial stability for many districts. Additionally, the expiration of $4.1 billion in one-time pandemic funding after 2025-26 could further strain resources.
For Black students, who are disproportionately represented in low-income school districts, the fiscal outlook provides potential for targeted improvements. Programs like the Learning Recovery Emergency Block Grant, aimed at mitigating pandemic-related learning losses, remain critical in addressing achievement gaps. However, recent assessments highlight the urgency of these efforts. Only 17.8% of Black students met or exceeded state math standards, compared to a statewide average of 35.5%. Similarly, just 30.3% of Black students achieved proficiency in English, compared to 47% overall.
The report identifies $2.8 billion available for new commitments, presenting options such as strengthening reserves, eliminating deferrals, or funding programs to address inequities. The LAO emphasizes the importance of fiscal planning and the strategic use of funds to ensure that these efforts will be impactful.
San Francisco to Implement New Speed Camera Pilot Program
The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) made a major move toward establishing a speed enforcement system for the city by awarding the contract to implement it to Verra Mobility.
Verra Mobility, is a partner of Bay Area construction company Marinship Development, LLC, and currently runs the largest speed programs in the United States. It builds safer and smarter communities through transportation technologies for smart cities, smart roadways and the integrated systems.
“We at Marinship are excited to work with San Francisco to make the city smarter and safer,” said Derek Smith, Founder and Managing Member of Marinship Development. “SFMTA’s choice to partner with Verra Mobility and Marinship Development, LLC. highlights its commitment to ensuring demonstrable change in the Bay Area, and we are excited to be a part of that change.”
Marinship Development Interest, LLC, is a California African American Minority Business Enterprise (MBE). Marinship has more than 30 years of experience in building construction, civil infrastructure, consulting, real estate development and energy infrastructure
The two companies empower communities to foster safer, healthier environments and enhance the quality of life. Marinship’s position is to oversee the construction and installation of the speed enforcement systems with Verra Mobility managing both the front and back ends of the program, according to Smith.
The partnership is designed to benefit the community
it serves, according to Marinship. The company says it works to continuously uplift California communities by focusing on local recruitment efforts, providing on-the-job training and internship opportunities to STEM students and professionals, and pursuing a greener, sustainable future for California.
SFMTA provides a level playing field with regard to contracting and employment opportunities with thirdparty vendors. It is the department of the City and County of San Francisco that manages all ground transportation in the city.
SFMTA’s Contract Compliance Office (CCO) establishes objectives and evaluates bids and specifications to identify potential barriers to participation by Small Business Enterprises (SBEs), Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), and Local Business Enterprises (LBEs).
According to Smith, once the contract is signed, Marinship will expedite construction in order to execute a quick turn in implementation.
City officials are looking to launch the program in the first half of 2025.
California Pushes Road Safety During Crash Responder Safety Week
Last week, California officials urged motorists to prioritize safety during Crash Responder Safety Week, emphasizing the importance of moving over and slowing down near emergency and work zones.
The campaign, led by Caltrans, the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), aimed to reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities among first responders and maintenance workers on California’s roadways.
California’s “Move Over” law requires drivers to change lanes when safe, or slow down when approaching stopped emergency vehicles or maintenance crews with flashing lights. Safety Awareness Week served as a reminder that first responders are often working in hazardous conditions to protect the public.
According to 2022 data by the National Safety Council, 891 people were killed and over 37,000 were injured in work zone crashes across the country. In California, more than 10,000 work-zone crashes were reported, resulting in 117 deaths and over 4,500 injuries.
Caltrans Director Tony Tavares urged drivers to stay alert and cautious in work zones.
“Safety is our top priority,” said Tavares. “There’s no excuse to speed and drive recklessly. Make the conscious decision to protect yourself, loved ones, fellow travelers, and vulnerable highway workers.”
Sean Duryee, commissioner of the CHP, echoed this message, highlighting that roadwork and emergency scenes are critical safety zones where first responders put their lives at risk. Steve Gordon, director of the DMV, also stressed the importance of educating drivers on road safety rules to prevent accidents.
Numerous first responders are struck by passing motorists while working at accident scenes each year. Traffic incidents are the leading cause of death for on-duty law enforcement, firefighters, and other highway workers, according to CalTrans.
California Voters Approve Measure Limiting AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s Spending
California voters have passed Proposition 34, a new measure that aims to limit the spending practices of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), a major player in funding rent control initiatives.
The California Apartment Association (CAA), the sponsor of the measure, argued that it would reduce taxpayer costs by ensuring that more revenue from federal drug programs goes directly to patient care, rather than being used for non-healthcare expenses such as political campaigns or luxury housing.
Recent reports indicated that Prop 34 passed with 50 percent of the vote, narrowly defeating the opposition. The law will target healthcare providers who have spent more than $100 million over 10 years on non-patient-related expenses, and it specifically impacts organizations that also face significant health and safety violations in their housing operations.
California’s nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) stated that the program allows providers including AHF to serve low-income patients. However, the law “does
not directly restrict how providers spend their revenue from federal drug discounts,” the LAO office stated.
The AHF earns substantial revenue from the federal 340B drug program, which is particularly affected by the new measure. The foundation has used its funds to support rent control campaigns, including multiple failed initiatives. The foundation also used funds to operate apartments, some of which were criticized for poor living conditions. In response to the measure’s passage, AHF president Michael Weinstein denounced the effort as a retaliatory move by wealthy real estate interests.
“If billionaires spend more than $170 million lying and confusing voters, they are virtually guaranteed to win,” said Weinstein.
While the law passed, the AHF indicated that it may challenge the measure in court, having previously filed a lawsuit attempting to remove it from the ballot. Legal experts noted that the specificity of the measure, which seemingly targets AHF alone, could render it unconstitutional.
Nonetheless, the passing of Prop 34 marks a significant victory for real estate interests and a major setback for the AHF’s ongoing push for rent control.
California Promotes Jobs Plan in Central Valley to Address Economic Concerns
Gov. Gavin Newsom visited Fresno on Thursday to promote his upcoming “California Jobs First Economic Blueprint,” aimed at bridging the economic divide between prosperous coastal areas and struggling inland regions.
During his speech at the West Fresno Center Campus of Fresno City College, Newsom acknowledged that despite California’s booming economy, many residents, particularly in conservative areas like the Central Valley, feel disconnected from its success.
“The economy may be booming for some, but people feel like it’s not supportive,” said Newsom, highlighting a key issue raised during the recent election.
In his message, Newsom clarified that the state’s economic growth is yet to reach everyone, namely areas that backed President-elect Donald Trump. The Governor stressed the importance of blue-collar job creation in these regions as a solution to the economic divide.
While Newsom’s announcement outlined incremental steps, the setting of him standing in front of heavy machinery at a blue-collar apprenticeship program symbolized his attempt to engage voters in traditionally conservative areas. This was part of his broader effort to respond to critiques of the Democratic Party’s disconnect with working-class voters.
Newsom also acknowledged that the cost of living remains the top concern across California. A recent survey showed that a significant portion of residents, especially in the Central Valley, expect tough economic times ahead. Newsom pledged that his plan would address these concerns and promised further details early next year.
His appearance in Fresno is part of a broader strategy to connect with conservative areas, a move seen by some as a response to the mixed results of the 2024 election. Newsom also indicated he would visit other Central Valley counties, including Kern and Colusa, to continue his outreach efforts across the state.
California Students See Gains in Attendance, Graduation
The newly released 2024 California School Dashboard reveals significant progress in student outcomes across the state, reflecting the impact of targeted interventions and investments in education.
Chronic absenteeism dropped by 16.7% compared to last year, indicating that schools are making strides in reengaging students. Meanwhile, graduation rates climbed to 86.4% for the class of 2024—the highest recorded since 2017—demonstrating a growing trend of academic resilience and recovery following the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Over 51% of the graduating class met the eligibility requirements for University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) admissions, a key indicator of college readiness. This shows a positive shift toward greater access to higher education and reflects ongoing efforts to support academic achievement among California’s students.
“Across California, we’re seeing that when we provide for the most vulnerable in our communities, all students reap the rewards,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. “Yet, we know there is still much work to be done to ensure every student has the support and resources needed to succeed.”
The Dashboard highlights gains in college and career
readiness for historically underserved groups, such as Black and Native American students, signaling progress in narrowing long-standing equity gaps.
However, the report also sheds light on areas requiring urgent attention, such as persistent disparities in suspension rates for Black students and foster youth.
“Today’s Dashboard results show California continuing to make important strides in post-pandemic recovery,” said California State Board of Education President Linda Darling-Hammond. “We are also supporting stronger gains for students who have been furthest from opportunity for many years. This progress is encouraging, but there is still critical work ahead to ensure equity for every child.”
The Dashboard provides a comprehensive view of key metrics, including academic performance, absenteeism, graduation rates, and college/career readiness. It serves as a tool for educators, policymakers, and families to monitor progress and identify areas for improvement.
For an in-depth look at the data and analysis, visit the 2024 California School Dashboard online.
The Bakersfield News Observer Can Publish
Derek
California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, (file photo Antonio R. Harvey)
Governor Newsom Unveils California
Jobs First Economic Blueprint to Drive Regional Job Growth
By Victoria Rodgers South Kern Sol
Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled the California Jobs First Economic Blueprint yesterday, introducing a plan to create good-paying jobs and boost regional economic growth by leveraging local strengths. Joined by community leaders, officials, and business owners from the Central San Joaquin region, Newsom presented this bottom-up strategy, which focuses on empowering each of the state’s economic regions to drive development through ten key industry sectors.
FOCUS ON TEN KEY SECTORS
The new blueprint centers on ten critical industry sectors, identified by over 10,000 local residents and experts across the state’s 13 economic regions. This initiative aligns California’s economic, business, and workforce programs to fuel job creation and strengthen local economies.
“Each region of California has its own strengths,” Newsom said. “We’re building out each local economy with a bottom-up approach that’ll connect more goodpaying jobs with California families.”
FOUR TYPES OF INDUSTRY CATEGORIES
California’s Economic Blueprint categorizes industries into four types:
Strengthen: Established sectors with competitive positions and strong employment bases.
Accelerate: Growing sectors ready for expansion with additional investment.
Bet: Emerging sectors that drive innovation and offer high growth potential.
Anchor: Foundational sectors that support local economies and industry activities.
The blueprint emphasizes workforce development to meet skill demands in priority sectors, especially in communities that have historically seen less investment. Dee Dee Myers, Senior Advisor to Newsom, explained, “This new economic framework will set the foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth, ensuring that the industries of today and tomorrow provide the good-paying jobs Californians deserve.”
STATE FUNDS TO CATALYZE LOCAL
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The state plans to release a full version of the Economic Blueprint early next year, along with $120 million in competitive funding over three years for jobcreating projects in priority sectors. Stewart Knox, Secretary of the Labor and Workforce Development Agency, highlighted the state’s commitment to workforce development, pointing to a $4 billion investment in job training pipelines that include education, apprenticeships, and earn-and-learn programs.
BUILDING THE BLUEPRINT THROUGH COMMUNITY COLLABORATION
The California Jobs First initiative evolved from the 2021 Community Economic Resilience Fund, later renamed the Regional Investment Initiative. Since 2022, the state has invested $287 million to empower local
communities to plan and implement region-specific economic strategies. Collaboratives within each region— including representatives from labor, business, government, education, and community groups—have developed datadriven plans focused on sectors with high growth potential.
In March, Newsom formed the California Jobs First Council, a coalition of nine Cabinet-level agencies focused on coordinating economic and workforce programs to maximize statewide job creation.
COMMUNITY LEADERS VOICE SUPPORT FOR THE INITIATIVE
Manpreet Kaur, Project Director for the Kern County Coalition, emphasized the blueprint’s significance to Kern County, a region with a strong labor history led by figures like Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta.
“California Jobs First set the table for all of us, as one Kern County, to sit together and do the hard work, ensuring all people in our region can access quality jobs into the future,” Kaur said.
NEWSOM ON THE BLUEPRINT’S VISION FOR CALIFORNIA
Governor Newsom praised the broad collaboration behind the California Jobs First Economic Blueprint,
calling it a pivotal effort to foster economic growth across the state.
“There’s so much noise in our politics,” Newsom said, “and then there’s a moment like this…that distills a sense of well-being, of optimism, and that anchors…in a very vivid way the work we are doing every single day in this state to try to connect this state together.”
He highlighted that, despite California ranking as the world’s fifth-largest economy, some regions still feel disconnected from the state’s prosperity. Newsom underscored the importance of ensuring every part of California shares in economic progress.
CENTRAL VALLEY’S ROLE AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE BLUEPRINT
Governor Newsom expressed admiration for the Central Valley’s role in shaping the California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, noting the region’s historical and economic significance. He praised local leaders for their dedication to the blueprint, which he said reflects a “bottom-up” vision rooted in community values. He acknowledged Kern County’s legacy, shaped by leaders like Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta, who championed workers’ rights and community resilience.
Reflecting on a conversation with former Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin, Newsom shared how her invitation to witness the Fresno DRIVE initiative inspired his own vision for California Jobs First. This experience, he said, reinforced the importance of regional-focused economic planning and highlighted the Central Valley’s potential to lead statewide economic transformation. STATE COMMITMENT TO THE CENTRAL VALLEY AND KERN COUNTY
The Governor emphasized that the California Jobs First initiative will ensure communities in Kern County and across the Central Valley gain access to good-paying jobs and economic resources traditionally concentrated in coastal areas. He highlighted early funding for several Central Valley projects, as part of a $287 million allocation toward regional economic plans, with more investments to follow.
With $120 million in additional competitive grants set to launch in January, Newsom assured Central Valley residents that these investments will not only strengthen the local economy but also create new pathways to prosperity. He underscored his administration’s commitment to making California’s economic growth truly inclusive.
(Photo from Governor Newsom’s livestream November 21st, 2024)