California's $18B Budget Shortfall Explained

California is facing a projected $18 billion budget deficit as Governor Gavin Newsom positions himself as a potential 2028 Democratic front-runner. From education funding and federal cuts to homelessness and local spending challenges, the state’s finances are under intense pressure. Meanwhile, political experts debate whether Newsom, or other candidates like AOC or Kamala Harris, have what it takes to lead the party nationally.