Deputy Politics Editor

Hannah Wiley

Wealth & Power Reporter

Emily Shugerman

What’s up with Ethan Agarwal, the tech candidate for governor you’ve never heard of?

Politics

Agarwal announced his candidacy last week to little fanfare. The Standard sat down with him to understand his unconventional platform.

Melanie Ott

With vaccine research under attack, it’s time for California to lead again

Opinion

Halting mRNA research right now is like banning ChatGPT, writes infectious disease expert Melanie Ott — not just scientific negligence, but strategic self-sabotage.

Senior News Reporter

George Kelly

Eleni Kounalakis won’t run for California governor

News

The lieutenant governor’s decision to shift to state treasurer resets the 2026 state elections.

Politics Reporter

Gabe Greschler

California Democrat wants to ban face coverings for ICE agents and cops

Republicans argue that the state doesn't have the authority to tell federal law enforcement officers what to wear. 

Business Reporter

Jillian D’Onfro

Trump slump hits California, as state expects first tourism decline in five years

Business

Numbers of international visitors, especially from Canada and Mexico, are predicted to plummet. The state is trying its damnedest to woo them back.