Yesterday in California: $106 High Speed Rail- Federal Funds Audit Underway

Here are 10 notable events that occurred in California on February 20, 2025.

1. Trump Administration Targets High-Speed Rail Funding: The Trump administration announced an investigation into California's high-speed rail project, threatening to withdraw approximately $4 billion in federal funding due to delays and cost overruns. KPBS

2. Federal Prosecutor Warns California Congressman: Interim U.S. Attorney Edward Martin issued a warning to California Congressman Robert Garcia over his public criticism of Elon Musk, suggesting potential legal consequences for his remarks.  SFGate

3. Protests Against Mass Layoffs and Elon Musk: Widespread protests erupted across California as federal workers and activists rallied against mass layoffs orchestrated by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Elon Musk's direction. SFGate

4. Transportation Secretary Booed in Los Angeles: Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy faced a hostile reception at LA's Union Station after criticizing California's high-speed rail project and announcing a compliance review of its federal funding.  SFGate

5. Investigation into Transgender Athlete Participation: The Trump administration's Department of Education initiated an investigation into the California Interscholastic Federation for allowing transgender athletes to compete in girls' sports, challenging a federal executive order. San Francisco Chronicle

6. Controversial Plaque Sparks Arrest: A plaque intended to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Huntington Beach Central Library, containing the acronym "MAGA," led to public outcry and the arrest of Chris Kluwe during a city council meeting. The Guardian

7. Labor Dispute Threatens Closure of Iconic Diner: The Original Pantry Cafe in downtown Los Angeles faces potential closure due to a labor dispute, with ownership allegedly threatening shutdown if employees continue unionization efforts. Eater LA

8.  Police Union Opposes Sheriff's Event Attendance: The San Francisco Police Officers Association requested San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus not attend an event celebrating female officers, citing her involvement in alleged misconduct and scandals. SFGate

9. Republican Sheriff Enters Governor's Race: Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, a conservative critic of California's Democratic leadership, announced his candidacy for governor in the 2026 election, aiming to address issues like homelessness and crime. SFGate

10. and other LGBTQ+ organizations filed a lawsuit challenging President Trump's executive orders that target diversity programs and transgender rights, alleging they violate constitutional protections. Wikipedia