September 21, 2012 | KQED This Week

Proposition 32 on the November ballot would prohibit employee paycheck deductions from being used for political purposes. Opponents of the ban, including the California Teachers Union, say it is an unfair attempt to restrict their influence, while not placing limitations on spending by wealthy business interests or individuals.

San Jose, long one of the safest large cities in California, has recently experienced a spike in crime. This week, Police Chief Chris Moore announced his unexpected resignation in January, after two years on the job.

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors has given approval to pave the way for clean public power in San Francisco. Residents would be automatically enrolled in the plan and charged a higher rate than for PG&E, unless they opt out. A similar system is currently in place in Marin County.

If approved by San Francisco voters, Measure F would begin a planning phase for draining and restoring the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir to park land. It is supported by the Sierra Club and other environmental groups. Opponents, including San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee and Senators Boxer and Feinstein, say it is a necessary water source and that the region cannot afford the costs.