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Political Breakdown

Big Tech Money and Trump DOJ Lawsuit Hit California's Elections

Silicon Valley is pouring money into downballot competitions, including a North Bay Assembly race. Plus, the DOJ targets California's elections a few weeks before Election Day.
Marisa LagosScott ShaferIzzy BloomLaura Fitzgerald
Rohnert Park City Councilmember Jackie Elward and Eric Lucan, who are running for California State Assembly, posing for a portrait in San Rafael on Oct. 15, 2026 (Beth LaBerge/KQED)

Big Tech interests are spending tens of millions in California’s state legislative races this election cycle. Marisa and Scott sit down with KQED’s Izzy Bloom, who’s been reporting on the spending in a local North Bay Assembly race. They discuss what it reveals about a shift in political spending strategy by tech industry leaders. 

Then, they’re joined by KQED’s Laura Fitzgerald to discuss the Trump administration’s lawsuit this week against California, demanding state elections officials withhold ballots from 20,000 voters that the Department of Justice flagged as potentially ineligible.

Don’t forget to use KQED’s voter guide when filling out your ballot!

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