California Economy: California hit a $4.5 trillion economic output milestone, with officials citing broad strength across tech, manufacturing, entertainment, healthcare and agriculture. Politics & Campaigns: A new wave of midterm ballot coverage is ramping up, including Proposition 3’s renewal of a higher-income tax and Proposition 4’s proposal to let governments use public money for political campaigns. Public Opinion: A PPIC poll finds Californians are sour on the direction of the state but still hesitant to break from the political status quo. National Security & Local Impact: Trump drew sharp backlash from California leaders after remarks suggesting Iran could “take out” Los Angeles and San Diego as a “small price to pay.” Privacy & Courts: Kalshi urged a federal judge to dismiss a privacy class action, arguing users expressly consented to tracking described in its policies. Workplace & Education: CSU faculty unions staged rallies over salary and benefits negotiations, while California’s CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT program is relaunching in October with $20 million in added support. Tech & Business: California’s COMPETE Act expands state competition law to single-firm conduct, taking effect Jan. 1, 2027.