The Thorn West is a state and local news roundup compiled by volunteer members of DSA-LA. Our goal is to provide a weekly update on the latest developments in state and local politics, and to track the issues that are most important to our membership.

Issue No. 242 - October 31, 2025

State Politics

• The federal government shutdown will cut off access to food benefits for 5.5 million Californians who receive SNAP benefits through the CalFresh program. California has joined 22 states in a lawsuit demanding the federal government use 5 billion worth of emergency funds it is authorized to spend to maintain the program. On Friday, two judges ruled in their favor, though November benefits are still likely to be delayed and may only be partial. The UTLA has called for a state of emergency should SNAP benefits expire.

• The Covered California enrollment period starts tomorrow, but the average cost of premiums is expected to go up dramatically, due to the expiration of federal tax credits. The extension of these tax credits is a central demand being made by Congressional Democrats during the current federal budget standoff.

• Results for the Statewide Special Election will be available on Tuesday. The sole item on the ballot, Prop 50, is a redistricting measure aimed at gerrymandering the California congressional district map in favor of Democrats—the measure targets five Republican seats. The LA Times covers the measure’s current polling. DSA-LA has endorsed a yes vote.

City Politics

• A budget instruction memo from Mayor Karen Bass regarding fiscal year 2026-27 asks city departments to plan for 5% budget cuts.

  
  

   

• The passage of SB 79 will automatically rezone areas near high-use transit stations for denser multi-family housing. The Los Angeles Planning Department has released maps of the potentially affected areas within the city.

ICE in Los Angeles

• L.A. Taco continues its daily updates of documented ICE activity as federal agencies perpetrate abductions and violence across the Los Angeles area.

Transportation

• Pedestrian and public transit advocates are pushing back against a massive freeway expansion planned for the 105 freeway at LAX. Meanwhile, after another delay, the LAX Automated People Mover, which will make the airport more accessible via public transit, is now scheduled to open in June 2026.

Labor

• With an 85% yes vote, The Los Angeles Times Guild has voted to authorize a strike if considered necessary. Workers at the Times have been stuck in contract negotiations for three years.

• DSA-LA is organizing members to rally with Los Angeles educators as they fight for better pay, among other demands, in ongoing contract negotiations with LAUSD. RSVP here!