
Facing recall, California Gov. Newsom pleads for optimism and patience
CNN
Facing a recall effort that has threatened his political future, California Gov. Gavin Newsom acknowledged Tuesday night the fatigue and frustration that many Californians are feeling after a year of sacrifices.
But the Democratic governor insisted in his State of the State address that California is on a path to recovery as Covid-19 cases decline, more teachers are getting vaccinated and more direct aid begins flowing to small businesses "hit hardest" by the pandemic. Newsom delivered his speech from Dodger Stadium, a hallowed Los Angeles landmark that the city has turned into one of the largest vaccination sites in the country. Standing on the field, under the bright lights in an empty stadium, he said the number of vacant seats behind him was roughly equivalent to the more than 54,000 lives lost in California -- "a silent tribute to loved ones who live forever in our memories."
5 things to know for March 16: War with Iran, Oscar winners, Travel chaos, Severe weather, US airmen
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The retirement of Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin after nearly 30 years in office sparked an expensive three-way Democratic primary that has showcased the party’s divisions over how to confront President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown and introduced pro-crypto forces as an influence seeking to shape the midterm elections. The contest is also setting up a test of Gov. JB Pritzker’s political clout in the state as he eyes a potential 2028 presidential bid.

Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, grandson of former Cuban President Raúl Castro, appeared for the first time alongside Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel at two public events on Friday, raising questions, according to analysts, about his role in Cuba’s leadership as the island faces calls for regime change from the United States.










