Region · State

California

New York Post

Nithya Raman Discusses Gaza Remarks at LA Mayoral Forum

Nithya Raman addressed her controversial use of the term "genocide" regarding Israel's actions in Gaza at the 2026 Jewish Los Angeles Mayoral Forum, which drew a mixed reaction from attendees. She emphasized the distinction between her views on Gaza and antisemitism while discussing the upcoming runoff election against Mayor Karen Bass, where recent polling shows Raman with a lead among younger voters.

BBC — World

Six Flags permanently closes X2 rollercoaster following injury allegations

Six Flags Magic Mountain has permanently closed the X2 rollercoaster after over 100 riders reported brain injuries. The decision follows lawsuits and safety concerns, with a law firm indicating that around 400 individuals have alleged injuries related to the ride. The closure has been met with mixed reactions, including calls for improved safety regulations.

Mother Jones

California Enacts Law Prohibiting Use of Electrical Shock Gloves by Law Enforcement

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill on September 29, 2026, prohibiting law enforcement from using electrical shock gloves, which have been criticized by human rights groups. The ban, effective in 2027, is part of a broader legislative response to ICE activities in the state. The Department of Homeland Security has indicated it will challenge the law.

New York Post

California Woman Faces Charges After Viral Confrontation

Lindsay Hansen, 47, from San Jose, California, is facing multiple charges, including felony hate crime and stalking, after a video surfaced showing her accusing a father of sex trafficking his daughter based on their differing skin colors. Hansen has a history of controversial behavior and is also involved in an unrelated case where she allegedly threatened her former employer.

Ars Technica

Artists Unveil Installation Criticizing OpenAI at Developer Event

On September 29, 2026, two artists from Odd Friend Studio unveiled a sculpture titled <em>What Iceberg?</em> at an OpenAI developer event in San Francisco. The installation critiques the perceived wealth of OpenAI's leaders compared to the broader societal impacts of AI.

PBS NewsHour

Los Angeles mayoral candidates prepare for forum amid homelessness and job loss issues

Los Angeles mayoral candidates Karen Bass and Nithya Raman are scheduled to participate in a forum ahead of the upcoming election. The race is marked by issues such as homelessness and job losses in Hollywood, with Bass defending her position against challenges during her first term, while Raman seeks to promote a more leftist agenda. The election's dynamics are influenced by the earlier candidacy of Spencer Pratt and the broader political landscape.

Daily Wire

California Recognizes Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as State Holidays

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation on September 29, 2026, officially recognizing Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as state holidays. The bill allows state and school employees to take leave to observe these holidays and permits schools to close for them through local agreements. The legislation faced some opposition regarding the promotion of religious holidays in schools.

New York Post

New York Times Executive Allegedly Murdered by In-Laws in California

Jonathan McKinsey, a New York Times executive, was allegedly shot and killed by his in-laws in a parking lot in Dublin, California. Court documents reveal a history of threats and abuse within the family, with McKinsey's wife filing for divorce and seeking custody of their children. The police are investigating the family conflict as a potential motive for the shooting.

New York Times — US

Man Found Dead in Dublin, California Park

Jonathan McKinsey, aged 40, was discovered deceased with multiple gunshot wounds on September 28, 2026, in a parking lot at Dublin Sports Grounds in Dublin, California. The incident is currently under investigation.

sfgate.com

California Candidate Gaea Powell Convicted on Nine Counts of Election Fraud

Gaea Powell, a Republican candidate in California, was convicted on nine counts of election fraud, including unlawful voter registration and fraudulent voting. She plans to appeal the verdict, which could result in up to eight years in prison. Powell has been involved in local politics and previously ran for mayor of Arroyo Grande.

Fox News — Latest

New York Times Games executive shot and killed in Dublin, California; in-laws arrested

Jonathan McKinsey, a 40-year-old engineering executive at the New York Times Games, was fatally shot in Dublin, California, on Saturday. His in-laws, Shouyong Zhang and Shili Chen, both 77, were arrested on suspicion of murder shortly after the incident. Police confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the public as the investigation continues.

New York Post

Nithya Raman Leads Over Karen Bass in LA Mayoral Race Predictions

Nithya Raman currently leads Karen Bass in the prediction market Polymarket, with a 58% chance of winning the upcoming LA mayoral runoff on Nov. 3. A recent poll indicated Raman has 39% support among likely voters, while Bass has 28%, with 33% undecided. The runoff was triggered as no candidate secured over 50% of the vote in the June primary.

Fox News — Latest

Authorities Search for Missing Convicted Sex Offender After GPS Alert

Merle Wakefield, a convicted child sex offender, has been missing since September 25, 2026, after his GPS monitor indicated tampering at a worksite in Rancho Bernardo, San Diego. Authorities are actively searching for him and have requested public assistance in locating him. Wakefield has a history of serious offenses and was on conditional release since November 2024.

New York Post

Three Arrested for Illegal Deer Poaching in California National Park

Three individuals were arrested for illegal poaching at Angeles National Park in California after officers discovered headless deer in their possession. The arrests followed tips about illegal hunting practices in the area. The suspects were released on the condition they appear in court.

New York Post

LA Mayoral Candidates Nithya Raman and Karen Bass Report Fundraising Totals

Los Angeles mayoral candidates Nithya Raman and Karen Bass have disclosed their fundraising totals, with Raman slightly ahead at $2.53 million compared to Bass's $2.51 million. Raman also has more cash on hand, and a recent poll suggests she is leading Bass. Both candidates are receiving support from various groups, with significant amounts being spent to promote their campaigns.

Fox News — Latest

Couple Injured in Bear Attack While Dog Fatally Injured During Incident

A Northern California couple was injured in a bear attack on September 19, which also resulted in the death of their French bulldog, Cassie. The couple, Jeff and Mallory Wilson, were hospitalized following the incident, which is currently under investigation by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.