Political cash floods California races

More than half a billion is likely, with much going to initiative fights. Biotechnology firms oppose Prop. 37, and a billionaire spends for a union dues measure and against Gov. Brown's tax hike.

Four years later, South L.A.'s zeal for politics has faded

The number of volunteers has dwindled since President Obama's first campaign, but the message is unchanged: vote.

High Desert outpost casts wary eye on election

Residents in Barstow, with nearly 14% unemployment, see few clear choices in presidential or state races. 'People are just hanging on,' a candidate says.

Kumbaya era unravels in campaign against Obama

Election of the first black president hasn't loosened nation's grip on prejudice, particularly with GOP's call for a return to American values.

A record number of Californians are registered to vote

Three-fourths of those eligible are on the rolls. Democratic registration has increased overall and Republican sign-ups have declined.

D.A. candidates seem to contrast but have much in common

Alan Jackson is an Air Force veteran from Texas, and Jackie Lacey grew up in the Crenshaw district. Both support the death penalty but favor expanding prevention programs and alternative sentencing.

Many death row inmates oppose bid to halt executions

If Proposition 34 passed, such prisoners would be given less legal assistance than they have now. Many would rather gamble on being executed.

Labor mounts massive effort to get out vote and defeat Prop. 32

The intense fight against the measure, which would curb unions' fundraising, could also give a boost to Gov. Jerry Brown's tax initiative.

Arizona nonprofit appeals judge's order to surrender records

The nonprofit, Americans for Responsible Leadership, gave $11 million to be spent on California political campaigns. The appeal may delay disclosure of donors' identity.

Gov. Jerry Brown's muddled message hasn't helped Prop. 30's chances

Brown fails to make consistent, coherent arguments to state voters about why they should back his tax measure.

Number of California voters reaches record levels

The more than 1.4 million new voters, almost half of whom registered online under a new state law, raise the total to more than 18 million. Democrats get a boost.

Justice Dept. looks into state's ban on prison-guard beards

Agency scrutinizes policy in wake of lawsuit by a Sikh man who said he was denied a job because of his facial hair, which is part of his religious practice.

Judge orders Arizona nonprofit to hand over political-donation records

The records involve an $11-million donation to a California political committee against Prop. 30 and for Prop. 32. It's unclear if donors will be revealed by Tuesday's election.

California cancels pact with firm co-owned by senator's spouse

The husband of state Sen. Mimi Walters is an owner of Drug Consultants Inc., which has contracts to provide medical workers for California's prisons.

Anti-tax group's support can come with a price

The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assn. says it endorses only issues in line with its fiscal conservatism. But it is also the face of numerous campaigns bankrolled by less popular interests.

Victims' relatives divided on ending death penalty

Former governors and families of some slaying victims denounce Proposition 34, while other families back it, saying execution doesn't bring closure.

Two San Gabriel Valley Assembly candidates under fire

Incumbent Roger Hernandez in the 48th District is accused of physically abusing a woman. Candidate Edwin Chau in the 49th District is accused of releasing the Social Security number of his foe's wife.

In Hahn-Richardson race, a black congressional seat is at stake

When remapping and new primary rules resulted in the two Democratic congresswomen vying to represent the 44th District, things got tricky for them and for voters.

Gov. Jerry Brown has yet to pick a central Prop. 30 sales pitch

Mixed messages about Gov. Jerry Brown's tax-hike initiative underscore his struggle pitching Prop. 30 to voters and have provided fodder for foes.

Some thoughts on four ballot measures

Props. 33 (car insurance), 35 (human trafficking) and 37 (genetically modified food) are misguided, but Prop. 40 (redistricting) is a must.

California voters more tolerant of illegal immigrants, poll finds

Less than half would support Proposition 187, which would have barred the migrants from most public services, if it were on the ballot today. But the electorate remains tough on border security.