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.

Who we are
Latest stories
Politics, Democracy and Elections News
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FAQ

Why doesn’t the San Diego trolley system have fare gates?

Why It Matters: County sales tax measure vague on Tijuana sewage fixes

Voter Hub: Candidates for California's 48th congressional district talk affordability

Why It Matters: Trash fee bringing in less than expected

Dem supes advance county reform package

San Diego County transit fares could rise 40% by fall if MTS, NCTD approve hikes this week

Why It Matters: Water Authority makes another water delivery deal

Why It Matters: The Midway Rising bill

Helena de la Houssaye (left) and Harper Haden (right) pose in front of a row of books in this undated photo.

San Diego middle school students win national documentary competition

Why It Matters: Inside the debate over secret county subcommittees

One Small Step

One Small Step brings strangers with different beliefs and backgrounds together for a conversation - not about politics - but to get to know each other as people. Together with StoryCorps, we’ll be matching participants and recording conversations.

Explore the series

KPBS Voter Hub

KPBS has a new and improved interactive ballot guide where you can search and find all the information you need to make informed choices. Check out the KPBS Voter Hub to understand what’s on your ballot.

Explore The KPBS Voter Hub

Series

America 250

This year marks an important milestone for our nation: 250 years since 13 British colonies claimed their independence and stood united for the values of freedom, liberty and democracy. KPBS’ America 250 project is a collection of stories, programs and events that help us reflect upon the ideals we aspire for the next generation. Explore our national and local history, reflect upon who we are and ask what we want to be.

View America 250

Talking Sense

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.

View Talking Sense

Share your thoughts

A lot has changed since the last International Day of Democracy.

The day is meant to be a chance to review the state of democracy in the world and “reinforce the importance of upholding free speech, civil liberties, and the rule of law; ensuring accountable institutions; and protecting and promoting human rights,” according to U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres.

But many fear democracy is eroding. Research shows that Americans’ trust in government and each other is on the decline. There is less hope, less civil dialogue, and less faith in local and federal government.

To explore those changes, we’re hosting a live Q&A as part of our Public Matters initiative.

We want to hear from you about your questions on democracy, housing, civic engagement and local government. Submit them in the form below.

Then, join our livestream Wednesday, Sept. 24 at noon on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Thousands of people march through downtown San Diego, California to protest the Trump administration’s sweeping immigration crackdown and efforts to consolidate power on June 14, 2025.

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 is generously funded by Irwin and Joan Jacobs.