Government & Politics
Stay connected with Santa Monica’s political landscape through our comprehensive government coverage. From City Hall decisions and policy developments to regional political issues affecting our community, we provide in-depth reporting on the governance shaping our coastal city. Our coverage spans local legislation, political campaigns, policy debates, and the key decisions made by elected officials and government departments. Follow city administrative changes, public policy initiatives, and political developments that impact Santa Monica residents. Whether tracking specific legislation or following broader political trends, trust Santa Monica Daily Press for thorough, balanced coverage of local government and politics.
Council takes first step in researching Silas White resolution
You may recall, during the March 19, 2024 meeting, City Council voted to research a resolution to the Silas White...
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Guilty: Trump becomes first former US president convicted of felony crimes
Donald Trump became the first former president to be convicted of felony crimes Thursday as a New York jury found...
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Activists celebrate potential plan for the Civic Center while City Hall stays silent
A new actor may audition for the role of Civic Auditorium Savior in the coming weeks after Council is reported...
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How did a shoplifting bill get through with most Democrats opposed?
Assemblymember Ash Kalra did something exceptional last week. He was the only legislator to vote "no" on a controversial piece...
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Optimism and warnings during annual budget review
At the mid-point of the city’s two year budget cycle, the cost to operate the city has increased by just...
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Newsom promised 1,200 homes for the homeless, a year later, none have opened
In March 2023, Gov. Gavin Newsom stood before a crowd in Sacramento’s Cal Expo event center and made a promise:...
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The cost to inform California voters? $118,000 a page for official guide
What’s the cost of democracy in California? If we calculate that based just on the pages informing the state’s 22...
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Council extends local emergency status of homeless crisis while awaiting results of this year’s count
In last week’s meeting, councilmembers voted unanimously 7-0 to extend the local emergency status of the current homeless crisis for...
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Senate advances legislation to crack down on stolen goods resellers and auto theft
The California Senate approved a bipartisan package of 15 bills on Wednesday that would increase penalties for organized crime rings,...
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Commotion fills City Council chambers as Israel-Gaza resolution causes division in community
Last week’s City Council meeting was dominated by the Israel-Gaza resolution proposed by Councilmembers Gleam Davis, Caroline Torosis and Jesse...
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