California Today: What to Know About the Wildfires in Southern California
Today's top stories from California.
The New York Times
California Today
May 21, 2026, 6:31 a.m. Pacific time

Today’s Top Story

More California News

San Diego Killings Follow Rising Anti-Muslim Rhetoric

Muslims pointed to a rise in overt hatred online, political attacks and harassment in the months before the killing of three people outside an Islamic center.

Trump Called Spencer Pratt ‘MAGA.’ That Could Doom Him in Liberal L.A.

Democrats have been trying to portray Mr. Pratt, a former reality TV star, as a MAGA Republican in the mayor’s race. President Trump just gave them a helping hand.

House Passes Housing Bill, Uniting on a Measure to Bring Down Costs

The legislation, which had been stalled amid Republican divisions, passed overwhelmingly, signaling an eagerness in both parties to address affordability in an election year.

How the $1.8 Billion Trump Fund May Violate Past Practice and Policy

The fund that could offer payouts to Trump allies who accuse the government of mistreatment is not only highly unusual but also appears to violate the administration’s own policies.

Jan. 6 Police Officers Sue to Block Trump’s Payout Fund

The two officers accused the administration of creating a “slush fund” to reward rioters and groups that committed violence on behalf of President Trump.

Bone Found Near Guthrie Home Predates Her Disappearance by 750 Years

Archaeological experts say the discovery is a cautionary tale about the consequences of citizen investigators taking matters into their own hands.

Mailbag: Will Chargers Have More Offensive Line Competition? Pay Tuli Tuipulotu?

Second-round pick Jake Slaughter will battle for the starting left guard position. Is that enough?

Today’s Extreme Weather

CITYRISK TYPES
Fresno
Some risk
Unhealthy heat
Sacramento
Some risk
Unhealthy heat
Bakersfield
Some risk
Unhealthy heat
Stockton
Some risk
Unhealthy heat
RiskSomeSome riskModerate riskHigh riskHigh

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Today's Recipe

Article Image

Bobbi Lin for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Eugene Jho. Prop Stylist: Christina Lane.

Watermelon and Feta Salad

By Eric Kim

Filled StarFilled StarFilled StarFilled StarFilled Star

1,879

5 minutes

Makes 4 servings

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