Steve Cooley says he wouldn't rule out a fourth term as L.A. County D.A.

The Republican, who lost a close race for state attorney general to Democrat Kamala Harris, says he would consider running in 2012 if a qualified candidate didn't enter the race.

Harris 'humbled' and 'proud' as she declares victory in attorney general race

Addressing a crowd in L.A. County, where she won a 14-point margin over hometown D.A. Steve Cooley, she outlines her priorities. She's the first woman and the first minority elected to the post.

Lawyers and auditors in prison agency get the same perks as cops and firefighters

Because they are classified as peace officers, they carry guns, drive state-owned cars and get enhanced pension benefits.

Brown's job gets tougher before he even takes office

Dire financial news underscores skepticism. Some wonder if anyone can turn the state around.

Capitol Journal: Brown has an opportunity to revisit Prop. 13

The incoming governor campaigned on a vow to return power to local governments, weaning them off the state's wallet.

Schwarzenegger making some scenes before making his exit

Accustomed to the spotlight, the actor-turned-governor is letting loose like never before in the sunset of his administration. 'I don't buy into the lame-duck thing,' he says.

Steve Cooley concedes race for attorney general to Kamala Harris

The L.A. County D.A.'s action ends weeks of uncertainty in one of the closest statewide elections in California history. The San Francisco D.A.'s victory completes the Democrats' sweep of statewide offices.

Ted Lieu takes early lead in bid to replace state Sen. Jenny Oropeza

The termed-out Assemblyman has won endorsements from two potential rivals for Oropeza's seat.

Schwarzenegger comes to group's aid with money for 240 turkeys

The Salvation Army in Compton had almost none of the birds to hand out to the needy for Thanksgiving until its plight hit the local news. Then donations poured in, including a big one from the governor.

California group pushes initiative modeled on Arizona's immigration-status law

Secretary of state says the proponents can begin collecting signatures. The law would require state and local officers to check status of those they lawfully stop and 'reasonably' suspect of being illegal immigrants.

State's GOP is sinking fast

As the party triumphs nationally, California's Republicans suffer staggering losses. It's past time for them to reexamine their positions.

Judge may bar sale of 24 California buildings

A suit contends the state cannot sell court facilities without the approval of the state Judicial Council. The governor proposes selling the buildings for $1.2 billion and leasing the office space back.

Task force wants Jerry Brown to create climate change panel

A group of business people, academics and environmentalists wants the incoming governor to coordinate data-gathering and monitoring of sea levels and water supplies.

The party that wins Asian voters may benefit for decades

A poll published last week held a glimmer of hope for the California GOP: Asian voters, unlike other minorities, are willing to consider Republican candidates.

Governor declares emergency over water contamination in Barstow

High levels of perchlorate were found in the Mojave Desert city's water supply. Residents have been flocking to grocery stores to buy water, and the school district is prepared to provide students with bottled water when classes resume Monday.

Harris' lead over Cooley grows in attorney general race

The Democrat is ahead by about 40,000, with about 300,000 ballots left to count.

For the GOP, California is a deep blue hole

A new Los Angeles Times/USC poll shows a deep reluctance among many voters to side with a GOP candidate and broad swaths of the state holding views on government's role that conflict with Republican tenets.

Whittier park offers a visit to the past

The last governor of Mexican California lived through some of the same social and political forces known to today's Californians.

Poll: Californians want it both ways on budget

Voters favor cuts to balance the budget — yet they object to most of the cuts that could be made, a Los Angeles Times/USC Poll shows.

Rating Schwarzenegger

The governor came in with high promise and leaves a mixed legacy

State-subsidized day care to last through the year in California

Schwarzenegger had vetoed the $256 million for the program that serves former welfare recipients who are now working but not earning enough to afford child care. The settlement is a stopgap.

Brown likely to retain most of Schwarzenegger's administration

As the gov.-elect's transition effort got underway Tuesday, aides said he isn't looking to restaff every department in the state. Budget director and Air Resources Board chair are named as likely carryovers.