FLIPPING THE 49TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT
The Story
A campaign to unseat incumbent Rep. Darrell Issa from the 49th congressional district has gotten off to an early start. Spurred by weekly protests at his Vista office, activists are looking to flip the region which straddles San Diego and Orange counties from Republican to Democratic. Issa's seat is seen as vulnerable. He survived his most recent election challenge from political newcomer Doug Applegate by just 2,000 votes.
The Discussion
- Why is Issa vulnerable?
- How is the political climate in North County changing?
- Issa has voted against his party lately, including this week on the GOP tax plan. Is he adapting to those changes?
RELATED: Campaign To Flip The 49th Congressional District Off To An Early Start
METHANE DETECTED AT SITE OF NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
The Story
A massive housing development being built in Otay Ranch has hit a snag. Methane and other chemicals have been found underground on the Escaya construction site. The developer says the issue will be dealt with appropriately, but the Otay Water District temporarily halted its work on the project. And buyers will have to wait to move in to their new homes. Some have even backed out of their contracts.
The Discussion
- Where are the methane and other chemicals leaking from?
- Can the risks be successfully mitigated?
- How long could this issue delay the project?
RELATED: Methane found at multimillion-dollar Escaya housing project in Otay Ranch
RELATED: Developer addressing methane problem at Otay Ranch housing project
IS CALIFORNIA READY FOR RECREATIONAL POT?
The Story
Come January 1, buying and smoking pot will become a quasi-legal activity. The feds are still against it, but as far as the state is concerned, cannabis is okay. California even launched a website, using comedy's most famous stoner, Cheech Marin, as a spokesman.
Most city governments in the county, however, are not onboard. San Diego is the only city where one will be able to purchase cannabis. And then, only in six of the nine districts.
The Discussion
-Is California ready for legalized, recreational pot?
-What is the industry doing to win over municipalities?
-How big an economic impact is recreational pot expected to have here?
RELATED: Recreational cannabis is about to go on sale in California. But it could be hard to find
