California Today: The Limits of Political Neutrality in a Divided Nation

September 17, 2025, 6:31 a.m. Pacific time

Good morning. Here are the top stories from across California.

Today’s Top Story

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The Limits of Political Neutrality in a Divided Nation

Two nonprofits prided themselves on being neutral voices. Then they found that there seemed to be no middle ground in the nation’s redistricting war.

San Francisco Politician Recalled Over the Great Highway’s Closure

Supervisor Joel Engardio was ousted by voters who were angry that he helped turn a thoroughfare into a park.

He Raised Three Marines. His Wife Is American. The U.S. Wants to Deport Him.

After three decades in California, Narciso Barranco was arrested by agents while weeding outside an IHOP, stirring outrage and a fight to stop his deportation.

University of California Leaders to Meet as Trump Increases Pressure

The Trump administration ratcheted up demands on the university system over the summer.

Judge Rejects Bid by Menendez Brothers for New Trial

Erik and Lyle Menendez, who were recently denied parole, have now been blocked from another once-promising path to freedom.

Robert Redford: A Classic American Ideal Who Escaped the Mold

Though he got his start under the old studio system, he remained a natural in the New Hollywood and beyond.

Robert Redford Didn’t Love Hollywood, Yet Hollywood Loved Him

Mr. Redford’s outspoken opinions and his championing of young filmmakers overshadowed his many criticisms of the industry.

Tropical System Could Bring Heavy Rain to Southern California This Week

The remains of Tropical Storm Mario could bring flooding to the Los Angeles area. Dry storms with lightning could ignite wildfires in Northern California.