Jamelle Bouie, a New York Times political columnist and a provocative voice on social media, will be the speaker for the 2026 Hays Press-Enterprise Lecture at UC Riverside. The talk, “What’s the Matter with American Democracy?” will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 2 at the University Theatre, 900 University Avenue in Riverside. The event is free, and guests are asked to register in advance, as seating will be limited. Parking is free in Lot 6.

With Venezuela in the thrall of U.S. oil demands and Cuba confronting massive fuel shortages due to an American blockade, the two countries face a more uncertain future than at any time since becoming close allies at the start of the 21st century.

Four of the leading Democratic candidates for California governor sparred off on healthcare, housing, and economic issues Friday, Nov. 7, at a debate at UC Riverside. UCR co-hosted the event organized by 11 nonpartisan California health-focused advocacy organizations.

In August, Texas state legislators voted for a mid-decade redistricting plan that is likely to turn five U.S. House of Representatives seats from Democrat to Republican. Soon after, California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a retaliatory effort, a special election in which California voters are asked to approve new congressional maps drawn by Democrats, bypassing the state’s independent redistricting commission. The plan would likely flip five red seats to blue. Republican donors including Charles Munger Jr.