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Public Matters

You are part of something bigger. A neighborhood, a community, a county, a state, a country.
All of these places are made stronger when we engage with each other in conversation and participate in local decision-making.
But where and how to start? Introducing Public Matters.
Public Matters Banner Image that includes a graphic of people holding signs that resembles civic engagement and a list of banners of KPBC Public Matters partners

Seeking Common Ground special Graphic Logo
Over the last few years and through this year’s contentious election season, there has been a coarsening in the way many Americans talk to each other. In this one-hour NPR Special Program, "Seeking Common Ground," we explore how some are trying to bridge divides. We asked reporters across the NPR Network to look for examples of people working through their differences.
What's at Stake page  graphic logo
There's a lot at stake this November. Could the County Board of Supervisors switch from a Democrat-led government to Republican? Are San Diegans willing to pay higher taxes in exchange for more city services? Voice of San Diego's Guide to the Stakes aims to educate voters on why their vote matters and how it could change the region.
Documenters Logo
The San Diego Documenters, an independently funded program of the nonprofit newsroom inewsource, is putting the "public" back in public meetings. The program trains and pays San Diegans to document community meetings and keep watch over local government.
Talking Sense Banner graphic
TALKING SENSE aims to help people have hard political conversations, better. Here you can find quick and easy tips to guide conversations and develop better communication skills. Understanding the way people view and communicate about polarizing issues is a first step in bridging political divides in our families and communities.
"Everyday Heroes" lead image graphic banner.
KPBS is telling stories of local volunteers who are giving their time in unusual and unexpected ways.

Share your thoughts

The 2024 presidential election was one for the history books, though less dramatic and contentious than some anticipated. Former President Donald Trump staged a dramatic comeback, winning the electoral college and the popular vote, while Republicans took control of the House and Senate.

Although the race wasn't as close as predicted, it was divisive and likely will shape the future of the country for decades. Voters faced key decisions on economic policy, immigration and reproductive rights, and their election of Trump will dramatically reshape the country.

Now that the dust has settled, we want to hear from you about how you're feeling about the election, and what questions you have about what happens next.

Citizens vote in Los Angeles County on Nov. 6, 2012.
Frederic J. Brown
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AP

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Public Matters is a joint initiative of KPBS, inewsource and Voice of San Diego to provide content, conversation and events ensuring all San Diegans understand their opportunity to participate in local decision-making and that we are made stronger when we engage with each other in conversation. Public Matters is generously funded by Irwin and Joan Jacobs.

Who We Are

Public Matters is an initiative of KPBS, inewsource and Voice of San Diego.

These three independent, non-profit journalism organizations are sharing content, conversation, and events that ensure all San Diegans understand their opportunity to participate in the democratic process and that it means more than voting in an election.

At its core, it is about reminding us that we have a shared humanity, and together we are empowered to make positive change.

Public Matters will lead up to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.

Public Matters is generously funded by Irwin and Joan Jacobs.

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