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Powerful earthquake strikes Venezuela; buildings collapse as rescue efforts continue

Two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck north-central Venezuela just 39 seconds apart, causing building collapses, trapping people beneath the rubble, disrupting electricity and communications, while authorities continue to assess the scale of the disaster.

by the El Reportero staff

CARACAS, Venezuela — Venezuela experienced one of the most dramatic days in its recent history on Wednesday after two powerful earthquakes struck the country’s north-central region just 39 seconds apart, causing buildings to collapse, damaging public infrastructure, triggering widespread power outages and communication failures, and prompting a massive emergency response.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the first earthquake registered a magnitude of 7.2 and was followed just 39 seconds later by a second, even stronger quake measuring 7.5. Both earthquakes were centered near Morón, in Carabobo state, west of Caracas.

The earthquakes were felt across much of Venezuela as well as throughout the Caribbean, including Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago, and other parts of northern South America.

Panic in Caracas

In Caracas, thousands of residents evacuated apartment buildings, office towers, hospitals, shopping centers and Metro stations as structures swayed violently for several long seconds.

Videos shared across social media showed residents rushing into the streets, families embracing in open spaces and bystanders attempting to help those trapped inside damaged buildings.

One of the most significant incidents occurred in the Los Palos Grandes neighborhood in eastern Caracas, where a residential building partially collapsed. Images distributed by Getty Images showed firefighters, rescue crews and police officers searching through the rubble for survivors.

Structural damage was also reported in Altamira, another Caracas neighborhood historically affected by seismic activity.

People trapped beneath the rubble

Within hours of the earthquakes, reports began emerging of people trapped inside collapsed buildings.

Firefighters, Civil Protection personnel, police officers and volunteers launched search-and-rescue operations while heavy equipment was brought into the hardest-hit areas.

As of publication time, Venezuelan authorities had not released an official death toll or casualty figures because rescue operations remained underway and several affected areas were still difficult to reach.

Airport, power and communications affected

Among the reported damage were impacts at Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía, where part of a roof structure was reportedly damaged during the earthquake.

Several Venezuelan states experienced widespread power outages, internet disruptions and cellular service failures, making it difficult for families to contact one another during the hours following the disaster.

Authorities also began inspecting highways, bridges and other infrastructure for possible structural damage.

Authorities warn of aftershocks

Venezuela’s Interior Ministry urged residents to leave buildings showing visible structural damage and remain in open areas because of the continuing risk of powerful aftershocks.

The USGS warned that additional earthquakes could continue over the coming hours and even days.

The agency also cautioned that there is a significant risk of landslides and soil liquefaction in some areas. Liquefaction occurs when water-saturated sediments temporarily lose their strength during an earthquake, causing the ground to behave like a liquid and increasing the risk of structural collapse.

Tsunami warning canceled

Shortly after the earthquakes, the U.S. Tsunami Warning System issued precautionary alerts for parts of Venezuela, Aruba, Bonaire, Puerto Rico and the British Virgin Islands.

After analyzing seismic and ocean monitoring data, however, officials canceled all tsunami alerts, concluding that there was no longer any threat to the region.

Even so, several coastal residents reported seeing what appeared to be an unusual retreat of the sea immediately following the earthquake, raising fears of a possible tsunami.

Memories of the 1967 earthquake

Wednesday’s disaster revived memories of one of Venezuela’s deadliest earthquakes.

The July 29, 1967 earthquake, which measured 6.6 in magnitude, killed more than 200 people and injured approximately 2,000 others while destroying numerous buildings in Los Palos Grandes and Altamira.

Following that tragedy, Venezuela strengthened its building codes to improve earthquake resistance.

Many Caracas residents compared Wednesday’s earthquake with the devastating 1967 disaster.

A national holiday

The earthquakes occurred on Venezuela’s national holiday commemorating the Battle of Carabobo, fought on June 24, 1821, under the leadership of Simón Bolívar.

Because it was a public holiday, many more people than usual were at home with their families when the earthquakes struck.

Eyewitness account

Katty Arangua, graphic designer for El Reportero and a resident of Venezuela, experienced the earthquake firsthand.

“Thank God nothing happened to us. We were in the backyard, but the house moved like it was made of paper. It lasted a long time. It was horrible. The walls, the roof… everything was moving.”

Later she described the conditions facing many communities.

“Buildings also collapsed here. Part of the roof at Maiquetía airport collapsed. We still have no electricity in several states, there is no local cell phone service, and then an aftershock came. We were terrified.”

Arangua added that she was only able to remain online because she had an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) keeping her internet connection operating.

She also said many residents remained outside their homes for fear of additional aftershocks and that reports of a possible tsunami circulated during the first few minutes after the earthquakes.

An unfolding emergency

The USGS said that, because of the earthquakes’ intensity and the dense urban population near the epicenter, there is a significant probability of widespread damage and numerous casualties. However, the agency emphasized that these are scientific estimates based on preliminary modeling and do not replace official casualty reports.

As rescue efforts continue, Venezuelan authorities are urging residents to rely only on official information, avoid spreading rumors and follow instructions from Civil Protection and other emergency agencies.

The full extent of the damage has yet to be determined. Nevertheless, images emerging from Caracas and other affected cities suggest that Venezuela is facing one of its most serious natural disasters in decades.

Sources: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), U.S. Tsunami Warning System, Reuters, Associated Press, BBC News Mundo and eyewitness testimony collected by El Reportero.

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Fresno authorities seek relatives of man who died in hospital

Inosencio Pérez Hernández

FRESNO, Calif. — Fresno County authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating the family members of Inosencio Pérez Hernández, 44, who recently died at a local hospital.

According to the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and the Fresno County Coroner’s Office, efforts to identify and contact next of kin have so far been unsuccessful despite searches of available records and other investigative efforts.

Officials said locating family members is essential to complete the necessary legal procedures and ensure that Pérez Hernández receives a dignified farewell.

Anyone with information about relatives, friends, or other individuals connected to Inosencio Pérez Hernández is encouraged to contact the Fresno County Coroner’s Unit at (559) 600-3400 or email coroner@fresnosheriff.org.

Authorities said that a phone call or sharing the information with others could help reunite family members and allow the appropriate arrangements to be made.

Source: Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and Fresno County Coroner’s Office.

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Beat the heat: PG&E offers customers simple steps to save energy this summer

Smart tools, myth-busting tips, and assistance programs can help homes and businesses manage seasonal cooling costs

Oakland, California. As warmer temperatures increase energy use, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is connecting customers with the resources they need to stay safe and cool, and keep energy costs down this summer.
Managing cooling costs is especially important this summer, with above-average temperatures forecast by PG&E Weather Operations and increased air conditioning use. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that homeowners spend $29 billion annually on energy for their air conditioners.

“We know that warmer temperatures can increase household energy costs, and we want customers to know they’re not going through the summer months alone,” said Vincent Davis, PG&E senior vice president of Customer Experience. “By making it easier for families to find discounts, energy-saving tools, and available assistance, we’re helping customers take meaningful steps to manage and reduce their energy bills this summer.”

To help customers cope with the summer heat, PG&E shares some simple steps that can reduce energy use and bills, while clarifying common energy myths and realities so they can make informed choices.

Myths and realities about energy

Summer Resources
Customers are encouraged to check if their home qualifies for the lowest-cost rate plan. Customers can find the lowest rate by logging into their PG&E online account and using the Rate Compare tool. Savings vary based on customer type and energy usage.

Customers can also avoid bill surprises by enrolling in the free Budget Billing program and signing up for Bill Forecast Alerts. Budget Billing spreads energy costs evenly throughout the year, while Bill Forecast Alerts notify customers via email, text message, or phone if a bill is expected to exceed a customer-set amount.
The HomeIntel program offers free one-on-one help from a personal energy advisor, and customers can save an average of $350 per year. Customers can also enroll in PG&E SmartRate™, which offers a reduced rate for using less electricity between 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. m. when “SmartDays” begin.

For a holiday-ready energy checklist and additional ways to improve energy efficiency, visit pge.com/summer.
Energy Efficiency Support Programs

  • The Switch Is On: A statewide online resource designed to help renters and homeowners interested in switching from gas to electric appliances by connecting them with available incentives and qualified contractors.
  • GoGreen Home Financing: A state program that offers affordable financing for energy efficiency improvements and helps homeowners and renters reduce their energy consumption.

Assistance programs for eligible households
PG&E is committed to helping eligible customers, based on their income, reduce and manage their monthly bills:

  • California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program: Offers a monthly discount of 20% on gas bills and 35% or more on electricity bills (compared to customers not enrolled in the CARE program).
  • Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program: Offers a monthly discount of 18% on electricity, regardless of the number of people in the household.
  • PG&E’s Relief for Energy Assistance through Community Help (REACH) Program: Offers eligible customers, based on their income, a one-time credit of up to $800 on past-due bills.
  • PG&E’s Match My Payment Program: Offers a matching payment, up to a maximum of $1,000, to eligible low- to moderate-income customers with past-due bills. Low-Income
  • Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): A federally funded, state-administered assistance program that provides a one-time payment of up to $1,500 based on past-due bills to help low-income households pay for heating or cooling. Payments may vary depending on location and fund availability.
  • Arrearage Management Plan (AMP): A debt forgiveness plan for eligible residential customers.
  • Energy Savings Assistance Program (ESA): Offers energy-saving upgrades at no charge.

Customers may also qualify for Medical Baseline, which offers an additional energy allowance at the lowest reference rate or a discount on rate plans without reference levels, and priority service disconnection notifications for those who rely on electricity for certain medical needs. Enrollment requires certification by a qualified medical professional.

To learn more about PG&E’s assistance programs, use the free Savings Finder tool or visit pge.com/billhelp.

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Abelardo de la Espriella Claims Victory and Promises a “New Era” for Colombia

De la Espriella hablando ante la multitud en Barranquilla después de conocerse los resultados. -- De la Espriella speaking to the crowd in Barranquilla after the results were announced.

by the El Reportero staff

Attorney and businessman Abelardo de la Espriella claimed victory in Colombia’s presidential runoff election held on June 21, after obtaining a narrow lead over left-wing Senator Iván Cepeda in one of the most polarized elections in the country’s recent history.

With 99.9 percent of polling stations reporting, De la Espriella received approximately 49.7 percent of the vote, while Cepeda secured about 48.7 percent. The margin between the two candidates was slightly more than 250,000 votes, reflecting the deep political divisions that continue to shape the nation. Although preliminary results favor the conservative candidate, the official vote certification process is still underway and election authorities have yet to declare final results.

Many analysts viewed the election as a referendum on the administration of outgoing President Gustavo Petro. Cepeda, a political ally of Petro, campaigned on continuing the social reforms and peace initiatives pursued by the current government. De la Espriella, meanwhile, focused his campaign on public security, fighting organized crime, strengthening the armed forces, and stimulating economic growth.

As preliminary results became known, thousands of supporters celebrated in cities across the country, while Cepeda’s campaign requested a detailed review of election records and urged Colombians to wait until the official count is completed before considering the race settled.

Celebración con simpatizantes ondeando banderas colombianas en Barranquilla. AP publicó una galería fotográfica completa de la jornada electoral y las celebraciones. — Supporters waving Colombian flags celebrate in Barranquilla. The AP published a full photo gallery of the election day and the celebrations.

Among the first international reactions was a phone call from U.S. President Donald Trump, who congratulated De la Espriella on his electoral victory. According to the president-elect, Trump reiterated his support for the incoming administration and expressed interest in strengthening relations between the two countries.

“I have received congratulations from major world leaders who support the path Colombia begins today,” De la Espriella said while referring to the calls and messages received following the preliminary results.

In his first public remarks from Barranquilla, where he addressed a crowd of supporters, the president-elect said the country is entering a new political chapter and called for national reconciliation.

“With what happened this Sunday, a new era begins for Colombia. The confrontation ends and service to the nation begins,” he said. He also pledged to respect democratic institutions and assured citizens that his administration would not be marked by political persecution.

“I swear to defend the Constitution with utmost consistency to prevent its destruction. I swear to defend it against those who seek to replace it with tyranny,” De la Espriella declared. The president-elect added that he would work toward national unity and reiterated that there would be no persecution of political opponents.

If officially confirmed, De la Espriella will take office on Aug. 7 for the 2026–2030 term. His arrival in power would represent a significant shift to the right in Colombian politics and mark the end of the progressive agenda pursued during the last four years. However, he is expected to face a divided Congress, which could make it difficult to advance some of his key policy proposals.

With reports from Reuters, El Colombiano, Colprensa and other international media outlets.

Suggested caption:

President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella addresses supporters in Barranquilla after preliminary results from Colombia’s presidential runoff election showed him holding a narrow lead. Photo: Colprensa.

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Father’s Day: In Memory of Dr. and Captain Fernando Cedeño Flores

En este Día del Padre, sus hijos recuerdan con amor a Fernando Cedeño Flores. On Father’s Day, his children lovingly remember Fernando Cedeño Flores.

Assassinated on April 13, 1970, for defending truth and justice

by Marvin Ramírez

June 18, the anniversary of his birth, provides an opportunity to honor the memory of Dr. and Captain Fernando Cedeño Flores, a man whose integrity and sense of duty left a lasting mark on Nicaragua’s history.

As a captain in the National Guard and a forensic physician, Dr. Cedeño participated in the autopsy of two murdered young militants. Faithful to his professional responsibilities, he reported his findings and identified then-Major Oscar Morales Sotomayor as responsible.

His testimony had historic consequences. Oscar Morales Sotomayor was subsequently tried and convicted by eleven members of the National Guard who served on the General Court-Martial Council. After reviewing the evidence presented, they found him guilty of the crimes for which he was prosecuted.

At a time marked by political pressures and personal risks, Dr. Cedeño remained faithful to his conscience and his duty. His commitment to truth and justice cost him his life. On April 13, 1970, he was assassinated at the age of 38 according to media reports, becoming a symbol of integrity, responsibility, and moral courage.

More than five decades later, his name continues to be remembered by those who recognize the importance of acting with honesty and responsibility in the face of injustice. His story stands as a reminder of the duty of those who choose conscience over fear.

He is remembered with special affection by his children, Fernando, Carlos, Carmen, and Doris Cedeño, who have lived in the United States for many decades. Together with family and friends, they honor the memory of a man whose example continues to hold a place of respect in Nicaragua’s history.

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Election integrity and public trust

Funcionarios electorales procesan boletas por correo durante el conteo en California. Election workers process mail ballots during California’s official vote count.
Marvin Ramírez, editor

by Marvin Ramírez

Trust is the foundation of every democracy. Citizens must have confidence that elections are conducted fairly, that every legal vote is counted, and that only eligible voters participate in choosing those who govern. When that confidence begins to erode, the legitimacy of democratic institutions comes under scrutiny.

That is why recent reports that the FBI and federal prosecutors are investigating allegations of election fraud in California should concern every American, regardless of political affiliation. An investigation is not proof that wrongdoing occurred. However, federal agencies do not typically devote time, personnel, and resources to election-related matters without first receiving information, complaints, allegations, or evidence they consider serious enough to examine.

For many citizens, the very existence of such investigations raises important questions. What prompted federal authorities to become involved? What information led them to believe a formal investigation was warranted? And what will they ultimately find?

The public deserves answers.

At the same time, reports have surfaced regarding voter registration rolls that contain deceased individuals, duplicate registrations, and other irregularities. Election officials often argue that outdated records do not necessarily mean illegal votes were cast. That may be true. Yet many Americans reasonably ask why such problems continue to exist in a modern election system.

Public confidence is not strengthened by dismissing concerns or labeling questions as politically motivated. Confidence grows when authorities respond with transparency, accountability, and facts.

California’s election process has also become a source of frustration for many voters. While numerous countries and states are able to produce final election results within hours or a few days, California often requires weeks before results are officially certified. Officials point to mail-in ballots, provisional ballots, signature verification, and other safeguards as reasons for the delay.

Those explanations may be legitimate. Nevertheless, a process that takes several weeks naturally creates doubt and suspicion among portions of the electorate. In an age of advanced technology and instant communication, citizens wonder why counting votes should take nearly a month.

Another issue generating debate is voter identification and proof of citizenship. Most Americans are required to provide identification for countless routine activities. It is therefore understandable that many voters believe verifying eligibility before casting a ballot is a reasonable safeguard rather than a burden.

Others disagree, arguing that stricter requirements may discourage participation by eligible voters. That debate should be welcomed, not suppressed. Democracies are strengthened when competing ideas can be discussed openly and respectfully.

The larger concern extends beyond any individual election. For decades, the United States has largely operated under a two-party system that many citizens feel no longer reflects the diversity of political views across the nation. When concerns about election procedures are added to existing dissatisfaction with government, public trust suffers further.

A healthy democracy should not fear scrutiny. It should welcome it. If investigations determine that allegations are unfounded, the public deserves to know that. If weaknesses are identified, they should be corrected. Either outcome serves the public interest.

The goal is not to weaken democracy but to strengthen it.

Americans should be able to agree that elections must be secure, transparent, accountable, and worthy of public trust. The FBI’s involvement does not prove guilt, but it does signal that serious questions have been raised. Those questions deserve honest answers. Without public confidence, democracy itself becomes vulnerable. With transparency and accountability, it becomes stronger.

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Trump administration highlights growing anti-cartel cooperation with Mexico

Elementos de seguridad participantes en operaciones fronterizas contra narcotráfico y crimen organizado. Elementos de seguridad participan en operaciones fronterizas contra narcotráfico y crimen organizado.

by the El Reportero staff

Senior officials in the administration of President Donald Trump are highlighting what they describe as a new era of security cooperation between the United States and Mexico, pointing to recent anti-cartel operations as evidence of closer collaboration between the two countries.

Speaking in an interview with The Epoch Times, White House drug policy director Sara Carter said the United States and Mexico are working more closely than ever in efforts to combat drug trafficking organizations that operate across North America and throughout the Western Hemisphere.

Carter cited a February military operation in the western Mexican state of Jalisco that targeted Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho,” the longtime leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). She said U.S. intelligence agencies provided information that helped Mexican authorities locate and pursue the cartel leader, while Mexican military and security forces carried out the operation on the ground.

According to Carter, the level of cooperation demonstrated during that operation reflected a significant change in the relationship between the two governments. She said Mexican authorities responded quickly to intelligence provided by the United States and coordinated closely with American officials.

The issue comes at a time when both countries face continued pressure to curb fentanyl trafficking, organized crime violence and the movement of illicit drugs across the U.S.-Mexico border.

Despite closer cooperation, the relationship has also faced tensions over alleged U.S. involvement in operations inside Mexico and criminal accusations against several Mexican officials.

During the interview, Carter discussed ongoing U.S. investigations involving political figures from the state of Sinaloa. She alleged that some officials had helped protect criminal organizations operating in the region. Those named in U.S. legal proceedings have denied any wrongdoing, and none have been convicted of the accusations made against them.

Among those facing scrutiny are individuals linked to political institutions in Sinaloa, including allies of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. Mexican authorities have stated that they have not received sufficient evidence from U.S. prosecutors to justify arrests or prosecutions under Mexican law.

Carter argued that governments throughout the hemisphere increasingly understand that the Trump administration intends to aggressively pursue criminal organizations and individuals accused of assisting them. She suggested that this determination has encouraged greater cooperation from partner governments, including Mexico.

President Sheinbaum responded cautiously when asked about Carter’s remarks during a recent press conference. Without engaging directly in a dispute, she reaffirmed Mexico’s longstanding position that cooperation with the United States must respect national sovereignty.

“Our position is very firm in the defense of sovereignty, in collaboration without subordination,” Sheinbaum said, emphasizing that Mexico supports joint efforts against organized crime while maintaining control over its own security decisions.

Despite occasional disagreements, both governments point to measurable results from recent anti-crime initiatives. Since Sheinbaum assumed office in October 2024, Mexican authorities report that more than 50,000 people have been arrested for serious crimes. The government has also transferred more than 90 cartel figures to the United States, dismantled thousands of drug production sites and seized hundreds of tons of illegal narcotics.

Another major theme of Carter’s interview involved cartel finances. Echoing comments made by FBI Director Kash Patel, she argued that authorities must focus on tracing and confiscating criminal proceeds if they hope to weaken powerful trafficking organizations.

“Follow the money” remains a central strategy in the fight against organized crime, Carter said. She argued that targeting financial networks can be as important as arresting cartel leaders because criminal organizations rely on illicit revenue to maintain their operations and influence.

Carter said cartels depend on money and power, making asset seizures and financial investigations key tools in combating organized crime.

The debate over security cooperation is expected to remain a central issue in U.S.-Mexico relations in the months ahead. As both governments confront drug trafficking, cartel violence and border security challenges, officials on both sides continue to emphasize intelligence sharing, law enforcement coordination and joint action against transnational criminal organizations.

– Source: Based on reporting by Mexico News Daily, The Epoch Times, and statements from U.S. and Mexican government officials.

 

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Peru faces challenges after closely contested election

Keiko Fujimori speaks with members of the media following the release of preliminary results in Peru’s presidential election. Photo courtesy of AS/COA. Keiko Fujimori habla con medios de comunicación tras conocerse los resultados preliminares de la elección presidencial peruana. Foto cortesía de AS/COA.

by the El Reportero wire services

Peru appears headed toward another period of political uncertainty after a closely contested presidential election that highlighted divisions across the country. With nearly all votes counted, conservative candidate Keiko Fujimori held a narrow lead over leftist rival Roberto Sánchez, positioning herself to become the nation’s next president.

The election revealed a familiar divide between urban and rural voters, as well as competing views about Peru’s economic and political future. Fujimori received strong support from business sectors and voters who favor market-oriented policies. Sánchez drew backing from communities seeking deeper reforms to address inequality and expand access to public services.

Political analysts say the outcome reflects years of frustration with corruption scandals, government instability and repeated leadership crises. Although Peru has maintained one of Latin America’s more resilient economies, many citizens feel that economic growth has not benefited all regions equally.

If officially confirmed as president, Fujimori will inherit a series of difficult challenges. Her administration will face pressure to strengthen public security, encourage economic growth, improve government transparency and restore confidence in democratic institutions.

The country’s fragmented political system could complicate those efforts. Peru’s Congress remains divided among several parties, making coalition-building essential for passing legislation and avoiding the confrontations that have weakened recent administrations.
Economically, Fujimori is expected to continue policies that support private investment and international trade. Peru remains a leading producer of copper, silver and other minerals, making it an important supplier of resources used in manufacturing and technology industries worldwide.

Foreign policy experts expect Peru to maintain strong ties with both the United States and China, its two most influential economic partners. Trade, investment and infrastructure projects from both countries play a major role in the Peruvian economy.

The close election result underscores the challenge awaiting the next administration. Governing a nation divided almost evenly at the ballot box will require political negotiation, economic stability and efforts to address longstanding public concerns. Whether Peru’s next president can bridge those divisions may determine the country’s direction in the years ahead and help restore confidence among voters seeking effective leadership and lasting stability.

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A California housing bill would raise wages to $28. Why do some unions hate it?

Martin Rivera works at the Quito Village Development Project in Saratoga on April 13, 2023. Photo by Martin do Nascimento. Martin Rivera works at the Quito Village Development Project in Saratoga on April 13, 2023. Photo by Martin do Nascimento, CalMatters.

This is just the latest spat between two rival construction unions over the future of California housing policy

by Ben Christopher

When is a minimum wage hike of more than $11 per hour actually a pay cut?

That question has dominated the debate over a current California housing bill that has riven the state’s two most powerful construction worker unions and many state legislative Democrats reluctant to get on the wrong side of either group.

Assembly Bill 1751, authored by Fullerton Democrat Sharon Quirk-Silva, would kick aside regulatory barriers to building townhouses — tightly clustered, multistory homes. In exchange for this fast-tracked approval process, townhouse developers would be required to pay their workers at least $28 per hour.

That’s a significant pay bump over the statewide minimum wage of $16.90.

But the fiercest opposition to the bill has come from what might seem like an unexpected source: The State Building and Construction Trades Council, an umbrella organization that represents electricians, plumbers, sheet metal workers and other skilled construction trade unions.

The trades — as the council is colloquially known — argue that the new wage floor could have the paradoxical side-effect of driving down the “prevailing wages” enjoyed by many of their members. Prevailing wages are mandatory minimum pay rates for publicly-funded or supported construction projects, which include many affordable housing developments and other projects propelled forward by recent state law in California. State and federal regulators set prevailing rates based on surveys of the most common wages in each field and geographic area. Because union pay scales can cover hundreds of similarly employed workers, those union-level wages often set the prevailing wage.

In a testy debate on the Assembly floor earlier this month, Quirk-Silva stressed — repeatedly — that the bill would in no way affect the state-set wage rates.

“It does not replace prevailing wage,” she said. “It does not undercut prevailing wage. This bill leaves prevailing wage exactly where it stands in current law.”

The trades aren’t buying it, noting that the federal government sets its own rates for federally-supported projects. But the group’s bigger beef may boil down to precedent.

For years, the building trades have battled any legislation aimed at easing regulations on the construction of new housing unless it also included pro-union guarantees. Those are either union-level prevailing wage pay requirements or, in more recent years, even more restrictive “skilled and trained” rules that require developers to hire apprenticeship program graduates, the vast majority of whom are union members.

Quirk-Silva’s townhouse streamlining bill introduces a new standard: a minimum wage far lower than what most trades members already make.

Making a meager minimum wage hike the new bone that pro-housing bills throw to construction workers would “signify the new norm,” said Chris Hannan, president of the Trades Council. “When you start a trend of doing a minimum wage, then that becomes the new go-to.”

The trades and carpenters, at it again

Standing on the other side of the debate, supporting the new wage standard, are California’s unionized carpenters.

The trades battling the carpenters is a familiar face-off in Sacramento. This isn’t even the first time the groups have publicly locked horns over this specific wage proposal.

Last summer, Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, an Oakland Democrat and longtime ally of the carpenters, inserted residential construction worker minimum wage of between $28 and $40 per hour into a budget bill in the final hours of the fiscal year. Aside from high-rise construction developments where the use of steel and concrete tend to draw more specialized workers, unions represent relatively few laborers who build California homes, the carpenters argued at the time. The new wage standard would be a modest corrective for those non-union laborers whose current wage floor is the state minimum wage.

For years, carpenters union leaders have argued that improving working standards for low-wage workers presents an “organizing opportunity” for the union.

The trades were apoplectic. Dozens of union members crowded in the budget bill hearing to decry what they saw as an anti-union reversal of state labor policy. One representative likened the measure to “Jim Crow” laws.  Many labor-friendly Democrats on the committee recoiled; the proposal was shelved.

This year, the idea has been given a bit more time for debate, though the trades and some lawmakers have still complained of a process they see as rushed.

When Quirk-Silva’s bill was introduced in early February, it focused solely on townhouse regulations. The wage language was added only in time for its second committee hearing in late April. (Quirk-Silva’s staff declined to make her available for an interview to explain that delay or discuss the bill in general, citing personal family matters. On the Assembly floor, she explained the late addition in part by noting “severe health issues” among staff and family members.)

Since then the entirety of the legislative debate has been focused on the wage issue.

That itself is a notable development: The bill exempts the construction of townhomes from both environmental review and the jurisdiction of elected local city councils and planning boards. Just a few years ago, such a proposal would have made for a capitol-shaking, headline-grabbing fight. But a year after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law exempting most urban housing developments from environmental litigation, the land-use implications appear to be an afterthought.

At an Assembly floor vote last month, San Diego Assemblymember Chris Ward referred to the minimum wage issue as the “900 pound gorilla.” He, like many Democrats who spoke on the bill, said that he supported the legislation in general, but that he remained wary of the “unresolved” questions about how the new wage rate would affect existing labor standards.

The bill needed 41 out of 80 “yes” votes to move onto the Senate. It passed with just 47.

Hike or pay cut?

Quirk-Silva’s office tried to get around the prevailing wage fight early on.

Prevailing wages are required of publicly funded works, including many affordable housing projects. They are set by the California Department of Industrial Relations, which sets its rates based on the most common wage for each job type in each region of the state.

Quirk-Silva’s bill specifically bars the state department from taking the new $28 per hour townhome wages into account when running those calculations, lest a glut of townhome builders inadvertently bring down the wages owed to union roofers and plumbers.

The trades aren’t satisfied with that concession. That’s because the federal government conducts its own wage surveys and set its own prevailing wage for federally-funded infrastructure projects.

The current federal prevailing wage required for a residential roofer in Sacramento, for example, is $46.73 per hour plus benefits. That number is based on the most common wage paid for that job in the area or — if no single rate is paid to at least 30% of the workers in the survey  — on the regional average.

“The federal government won’t give a rat’s ass about what this bill says,” Scott Wetch, a lobbyist for Trades-affiliated unions, said at the bill’s April hearing. “And they will set the prevailing wage rate for all the crafts at $28.”

The trades “have a case” in this argument, said Kevin Duncan, an economist at Colorado State University Pueblo who has studied prevailing wage policy’s effect on construction costs. Imagine a smaller market with a relatively low unionization rate. If the bill uncorked a geyser of contractors paying all their low-wage workers exactly $28 per hour, “that would be the prevailing rate — and with zero benefits,” he said.

Backers of the bill dispute that, saying such a specific outcome is unlikely given how many contractors are likely to use this specific townhouse bill. They also argue that vanishingly few residential roofers do federal public works jobs in Sacramento — or anywhere in California — so changes in the federal prevailing wage for residential projects aren’t likely to affect many workers anyway. Instead, most roofers are non-union on privately-funded projects and many are being paid less than $28 per hour, said Danny Curtin, director of the California Council of Carpenters.

To say that raising those wages “will actually bring everybody else’s wages down, defies comprehension,” he said at the hearing.

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Low magnesium intake linked to seven health risks, review finds

by Coco Somers

A review published in Nutrients identified seven major health concerns associated with inadequate magnesium intake: high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, migraines, depression, chronic inflammation, and sarcopenia. Registered dietitian nutritionist Molly Knudsen reported that magnesium acts as a cofactor in more than 600 enzymatic reactions, supporting metabolism, muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and cellular function.

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the human body and is essential for the healthy functioning of the heart, kidneys, muscles, and nervous system. Many adults fail to consume enough magnesium through diet, increasing the risk of chronic health problems.

Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health

Research cited in the review found that lower magnesium intake is associated with higher blood pressure. Magnesium helps regulate blood vessel function and supports healthy circulation. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a qualified health claim recognizing the potential relationship between magnesium consumption and reduced risk of hypertension.

Stress is also known to deplete magnesium stores. As magnesium levels fall, blood vessels may become more constricted, increasing the likelihood of elevated blood pressure and cardiovascular strain.

Magnesium also plays a critical role in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. People with Type 2 diabetes frequently have lower magnesium levels than those without the disease. Studies suggest that magnesium supplementation may improve insulin function and help maintain healthier blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Bone health, migraines, and mental well-being

Magnesium works closely with calcium and vitamin D to maintain strong bones. Long-term deficiency has been linked to increased fracture risk and reduced bone density. The mineral helps activate vitamin D and supports calcium absorption, both essential for bone formation and maintenance.

Researchers also found a connection between magnesium status and migraine headaches. People who suffer from migraines often have lower magnesium levels, and increasing intake may reduce the frequency or severity of attacks.

Mental health may also be affected. Low magnesium status has been associated with greater stress sensitivity and depressive symptoms. Some studies have reported improvements in mood among individuals who increased magnesium intake through diet or supplementation.

Inflammation and muscle function

The review found that low magnesium levels can increase oxidative stress and activate inflammatory pathways. Conversely, higher magnesium intake is associated with lower levels of inflammatory markers. Foods rich in magnesium, such as nuts, seeds, legumes, and leafy greens, may help support a healthier inflammatory response.

Magnesium is equally important for muscle function. It helps regulate muscle contraction and relaxation while supporting energy production. Research links higher magnesium status with greater muscle strength and a lower risk of sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and function.

How to increase magnesium intake

Good dietary sources of magnesium include nuts, seeds, legumes, leafy green vegetables, whole grains, avocados, cocoa, fish, and dairy products. Recommended daily intake ranges from 310–320 milligrams for women and 400–420 milligrams for men.

Factors such as chronic stress, poor sleep, pregnancy, intense physical activity, and certain medications can increase magnesium requirements or contribute to depletion.

For those who struggle to meet their needs through food alone, magnesium supplements may help. Magnesium bisglycinate and magnesium chloride are commonly recommended because of their high absorption rates. Health experts advise consulting a healthcare provider before beginning long-term supplementation.

Maintaining adequate magnesium intake remains one of the simplest ways to support cardiovascular, metabolic, bone, muscle, and mental health.

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