Political columnist George Skelton has covered government and politics for 60 years and for The Times since 1974. He has been a Times political writer and editor in Los Angeles, Sacramento bureau chief and White House correspondent. He has written a column on California politics, “Capitol Journal,” since 1993. Skelton is a Santa Barbara native, grew up in Ojai and received a journalism degree at San Jose State.
Latest From This Author
Has California reached its limit in providing benefits for immigrants living here illegally? That’s the indication after Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed three bills passed by the liberal Legislature.
Oct. 7, 2024
Californians would love it if Kamala Harris stole former President Trump’s idea to uncap the state and local tax deduction.
Sept. 22, 2024
A new poll shows that California voters overwhelming support Proposition 36, sponsored by the California District Attorney’s Assn. The November ballot measure would increase punishment for theft and hard drug offenses and impose required treatment for repetitive criminal addicts.
Sept. 18, 2024
Here’s one election prediction from a nonpartisan expert: Californians will be so enthused about Kamala Harris they could vote in record numbers. A huge Democratic turnout, of course, would help the party’s down-ticket candidates.
Sept. 16, 2024
Donald Trump finally met his match in a debate. Kamala Harris not only dominated and clobbered him, she goaded him into appearing unhinged. So what do California Republicans still see in the guy?
Sept. 12, 2024
Leader of California’s state Senate appears to end fight with Gov. Gavin Newsom over special session on requiring oil refineries to keep reserves, which the governor says will address price spikes.
Sept. 5, 2024
Gov. Gavin Newsom should now narrow his focus from national politics to the elections in his own backyard.
Sept. 2, 2024
Gov. Gavin Newsom once talked big about forcing internet giants to pay for the products they heist and profit off. But last week he scuttled legislation to require payment for news stories.
Aug. 26, 2024
Kamala Harris is one step from becoming America’s first female president because she has always had the drive and guts to risk seeking a higher office.
Aug. 23, 2024
A functional democracy must be fueled by a flow of credible information. The void created by the decline of journalism is filled by misinformation.
Aug. 19, 2024