California Today: In California, a Republican Sheriff Seizes Ballots, Prompting Criticism
Today's top stories from California.
The New York Times
California Today

March 23, 2026, 6:31 a.m. Pacific time

Today’s Top Story

More California News

More Air-Conditioners Crank Up as Heat Wave Wilts Large Part of U.S.

In recent years, more homes have added air-conditioning, something that may come in handy this week as some areas are expected to see temperatures 40 degrees above normal.

Is Taste the One Thing A.I. Can’t Replace?

Anxious tech workers in Silicon Valley are trying to cultivate a quality they say ChatGPT can’t provide.

Public References to Cesar Chavez Are Being Removed Across the U.S.

The removals followed a New York Times investigation that revealed Chavez sexually abused women and girls.

Across the West, Record Heat Is Colliding With a Snow Drought

Snowpack, a crucial water source for the region, was already scarce after a mild winter. Now, intense heat could make matters worse.

Vertical Farms Tried to Compete With Open Field Farming. It Isn’t Going Well.

The industry was a darling of the venture capital world 10 years ago. With many farms out of business, the remaining companies have scaled back.

San Francisco Driver Gets Probation After Killing a Family of 4

Mary Fong Lau, 80, will perform 200 hours of community service as part of her sentence. Her speeding vehicle crashed into a family as they waited for a bus ride to the zoo in 2024.

Amazon MGM Gets a Much-Needed Hit With ‘Project Hail Mary’

The movie, which stars Ryan Gosling, is on pace to be the company’s highest-grossing domestic film.

Nate Williams on His Faith-Filled Journey From Rochester to Warriors: ‘I Don’t Fear No Man’

Three of Nate Williams’ eight career double-figure scoring games has come since joining the Warriors not even a month ago.

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Today's Recipe

Article Image

Armando Rafael for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Cyd Raftus McDowell.

Chorba Beida (Chicken and Chickpea Soup)

By Nargisse Benkabbou

Filled StarFilled StarFilled StarFilled StarUnfilled Star

19

1 hour

Makes 4 to 6 servings

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