KQED's The California Report

Nadia Lathan, a CalMatters reporter covering California public policy and local government, breaks down why removing Cesar Chavez's name from streets and public sites is more than symbolic. She explains the logistical headaches of replacing signs, costs for residents and businesses, and the tangled approvals for parks, buildings and statues. Different cities are taking very different paths on renaming.

Farida Jhabvala Romero, investigative reporter who covered the United Farm Workers story, explores the fallout from sexual abuse allegations about Cesar Chavez. She interviews union leaders and historians. Short segments touch on membership decline, fears growers might exploit the scandal, and debates over separating the movement from Chavez’s personal legacy.

Megan Jamerson, a public radio reporter who covered the 2006 immigrant rights marches in Los Angeles, recounts on-the-ground reporting and interviews from that moment. She explores the massive turnout, the coalitions that mobilized millions, scenes and symbolism from the march, and why such mass demonstrations are harder to replicate today.

Daniel Sumner, an economist and UC Davis professor who once served as USDA assistant secretary, explains how restrictions at the Strait of Hormuz could ripple through fertilizer flows. He breaks down timing for California planting, how fertilizer and fuel costs affect farm decisions, and when consumers might feel price changes. Short, timely analysis of agriculture under geopolitical strain.

Samantha Rangel, KVPR reporter who produced on-the-ground coverage of a Fresno County mobile 911 dispatch training program. She describes students running AI-driven realistic call simulations. The segment covers how simulations are designed, AI scoring, and the program’s role in addressing dispatcher shortages and shaping career paths.

Marisa Lagos, KQED politics correspondent who tracks California politics and national positioning, and Mark Betancourt, immigration reporter for The California Newsroom, discuss Gavin Newsom’s push into foreign policy to raise his national profile. They also cover ICE arrests of relatives at ORR appointments and documents suggesting a formal operation. Short takes on political risks and legal concerns follow.

A deep dive into why California condors keep dying from lead despite legal protections. Scientists reveal how freer-flying birds face unexpected poisoning risks. Reporting also covers a controversial county election probe and debates over ag‑tech investment and farmworker displacement.

Farmworker leaders and community members confront disturbing accusations about a civil rights figure. Reporters capture shock, confusion, and questions about past silence. Organizers discuss how revelations affect activism and call for a reckoning and prevention. Conversations about renaming commemorations and next steps for the movement are highlighted.

Gustavo Arellano, LA Times columnist known for sharp commentary on Latino culture and politics, discusses the New York Times investigation into allegations about Cesar Chavez. He talks about why survivors often come forward years later. He explores initial reactions from Chavez circles, the UFW distancing itself, and local moves to rename holidays and streets.

The nationwide increase in gas prices since the beginning of the war in Iran is hitting especially hard in California, already home to the nation’s highest prices at the pump. It's also started a new round of political blame game between President Trump, Governor Newsom, and even some Democrats. Reporter: Guy Marzorati, KQED Veterans and native tribes are calling for the protection of public lands in the Mojave Desert. They say President Trump’s nominee to lead the Bureau of Land Management could open the area to fossil fuel extraction. Reporter: Anthony Victoria, KVCR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices