Sen. Mike McGuire, who represents Humboldt in the upper chamber of the legislature, made a speech in support of Senate Bill 747, the “No Kings Act.” 

The bill — authored by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) and Sen. Aisha Wahab (D-Fresno) would establish a legal path for citizens whose rights are violated by federal officials to sue those officials in court.

Watch McGuire’s speech above — the video and the audio tracks are a little out of sync — or read his remarks below:

I rise today in support of Senate Bill 747, and thank the Senator from San Francisco for his work on this today.

I rise today not just as a member of the Senate, but as a dad. 

Erika and my son, Connor, turns five years old next month. Five years old. And like so many parents across this country, I watched in disbelief last week as photographs emerged of ICE agents literally kidnapping a five year old in Minnesota. A child named Liam Conejo Ramos, he’s nearly the same age as Connor.

They didn’t kidnap him because the child had done anything wrong, because they wanted to use him as bait.

As bait.

They took a five year old, terrified and confused, knocking on his damn parents’ door, still wearing his Spider Man backpack from school, and used him to lure out his dad and then arrested him. You want to stand up here and defend that? Go right ahead. That’s not who we are as Americans or as a country. 

But it doesn’t start or end there, like millions of Americans we watched with horror this past weekend as ICE agents murdered Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. Let’s call it what it is, state-sponsored violence. Just under three weeks ago, we watched as Renee Good was murdered by the secret police.

Right now, there are kids across America, right here in Sacramento and across the state, who are too afraid to go to school. Parents across this country who won’t go to work because they don’t want to be separated from their kids and deported. You talk to doctors and nurse practitioners, parents aren’t sending their kids to the doctor anymore because they’re afraid of being deported. 

Not because they are criminals, but because they are being targeted by the color of their skin. It’s called racial profiling, and it’s unconstitutional. 

This is not the America that we fight for every day. 

This is what we should be fighting against. It’s called fascism. 

And look, I think it’s easy to be scared and angry right now, but we have to turn that anger into action, and that’s how we stop this. That’s what we’re doing today with Senate Bill 747, the No Kings Act. We’re making clear that federal agents who violate constitutional rights will no longer be shielded from accountability in this state. No secret police. 

And if you violate someone’s constitutional rights, you can be held accountable in a court of law, just like all of us. Just like all of us in the California State Senate. 

So let’s show the rest of America that California will not be silent. Being silent at this point in time in our nation’s history would be immoral. We would be complicit. 

We will not be intimidated. We are better than this in this country. And together, we’re going to prove it. 

Would recommend an aye vote on Senate Bill 747.

Press release from the California Highway Patrol, Garberville Area:

On January 26, 2026, at approximately 9:25 PM, a silver Ford Escape with one occupant was traveling southbound on US-101, south of Rattlesnake Summit. A white Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Ereida Ramirez-Madera, was traveling northbound on US-101, south of Rattlesnake Summit in the number one lane. The Ford and the Chevrolet were approaching each other in opposite directions. A white Freightliner truck tractor with an unloaded flatbed trailer, driven by Noel Rivera-Alfaro, was traveling northbound on US-101, south of Rattlesnake Summit in the number one lane and behind the Chevrolet.

For reasons still under investigation, the Ford crossed over the solid double yellow lines and into the northbound number one lane. The Ford continued in a southerly direction into the direct path of the Chevrolet and Freightliner. The Ford side swiped the left side of the Chevrolet and continued traveling southbound in the northbound number one lane where it collided with the left side of the Freightliner’s flatbed trailer. After being struck by the Ford, the Chevrolet lost control, hit a dirt embankment, overturned in the road, and came to rest on its side in the northbound number two lane. The Freightliner continued northbound on US-101 and pulled into a dirt shoulder, just north of the scene. The Ford came to rest straddling the double yellow lines.

As a result of the crash, the driver of the Ford was pronounced deceased on scene. A passenger in the Chevrolet sustained minor injuries and was transported to Howard Memorial Hospital. It is unknown at this time if drugs or alcohol were a factor in this crash.

The California Highway Patrol, Cal-Trans, Laytonville Fire Department, Cal Fire, and Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office, all responded to the scene. This collision remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol - Garberville Area’s Laytonville Resident Post.

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PREVIOUSLY:

• OBITUARY: Forrest ‘Ben’ Hurd, 1932-2025

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CORRECTION: The headline for this story initially misstated the location of the Christmas tree farm. The Outpost regrets the error.

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Press release from Hospice of Humboldt:

Hospice of Humboldt is deeply grateful to “Ben’s Bunch” and the Humboldt County community for making the final season of Ben Hurd’s Christmas Tree Farm a remarkable success, raising $26,179.91 in support of compassionate hospice and palliative care services in our local community.

The beloved tree farm, a longtime holiday tradition in Arcata, opened its gates one last season with proceeds benefiting Hospice of Humboldt in honor of Ben Hurd’s legacy of generosity, community, and bringing people together.

Families from across Humboldt County visited the farm throughout the holiday season, selecting Christmas trees, sharing memories, and supporting care for local patients and families during some of life’s most tender moments.

“This meant so much to all of us,” said Tia Baratelle, Director of Development at Hospice of Humboldt. “Ben’s Bunch turned a cherished community tradition into a powerful act of compassion. The $26,179.91 raised will directly support patients and families served by Hospice of Humboldt, ensuring they receive comfort, dignity, and heartfelt care.”

Ben Hurd’s obituary photo.

Members of Ben’s Bunch shared that they were honored to carry on Ben’s legacy in a way that reflected his love for community, connection, and giving back.

The funds raised will help Hospice of Humboldt continue providing hospice care, home-based palliative care, and grief support services for individuals and families in Humboldt County.

“Humboldt has always shown up for one another,” Baratelle added. “This final season at Ben Hurd’s Christmas Tree Farm was a beautiful reminder of how much compassion lives in this community.”

Hospice of Humboldt extends heartfelt thanks to Ben’s Bunch, volunteers, and everyone who purchased a tree and helped make this meaningful fundraiser such a success.

From the Eureka Police Department:

The Eureka Police Department proudly announces the retirement of K9 Bodhi, a highly accomplished narcotics and firearms detection canine, following more than five years of dedicated service to the community.

K9 Bodhi began his law enforcement career on June 22, 2020, and officially retired on January 1, 2026. Throughout his career, Bodhi served alongside Sergeant Nantz, forming a close and highly effective K9 team. Their partnership included assignments with the Drug Task Force (DTF) as well as deployments with the Eureka Police Department.

K9 Bodhi was trained and certified in narcotics and firearms detection, including the detection of live and spent ammunition. Since being deployed with the Eureka Police Department, Bodhi completed over 100 deployments, assisting officers in locating illegal drugs and firearms and supporting countless investigations. While assigned to the Drug Task Force, K9 Bodhi played a significant role in major narcotics enforcement efforts. Working with Sergeant Nantz, Bodhi assisted in the seizure of:

• 64 pounds of methamphetamine
• 19 pounds of heroin
• 45 pounds of additional narcotics
• 144 grams of psilocybin mushrooms
• 58 grams of fentanyl
• 32 grams of cocaine
• 42 grams of DMT
• 25 grams of LSD (acid)

These seizures represent a substantial impact on drug trafficking in the region and reflect the critical role K9 Bodhi played in protecting public safety.

“K9 Bodhi’s contributions to the Eureka Police Department and the community cannot be overstated,” said Chief Brian Stephens. “His work with Sergeant Nantz and our regional partners significantly enhanced our ability to disrupt drug distribution and remove illegal firearms from our streets. We are grateful for his years of loyal service.”

K9 Bodhi will now enjoy a well-earned retirement, transitioning from law enforcement partner to full-time companion. The Eureka Police Department extends its sincere thanks to K9 Bodhi and Sergeant Nantz for their outstanding service and dedication.

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PREVIOUSLY: THE FORGOTTEN DISASTER: King Salmon Was Smashed by King Tides at the Beginning of the Year. Why is No One Talking About It?

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Three weeks after record-breaking floodwaters drenched King Salmon, many residents are still hauling ruined furniture and appliances from their homes, waiting on property damage assessments and grappling with temporary displacement. 

Humboldt Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) is leading the recovery response in King Salmon with assistance from the Humboldt Office of Emergency Services (OES), Fields Landing-King Salmon (FLKS) Living with Water Project, Cal Poly Humboldt, the American Red Cross, Pay It Forward Humboldt and other local partners.

During a virtual community meeting on Monday, Humboldt COAD Executive Director Nick Bown-Crawford described the “perfect storm” of events that led to the unprecedented floods on New Year’s weekend and discussed next steps for recovery.

“King Salmon is no stranger to floods, but this was something that they’ve never experienced before,” Bown-Crawford said. “We’re entering into that early recovery zone, where we’re really mapping out the unmet needs [of] our most vulnerable households, and then working through a matchmaking process [for donations]. … I’ve been working on getting some folks into temporary housing, as they have been directly displaced from the flooding or are now being displaced because they’re having to demo the full interiors of their home and [have] no place to live.”

At least 42 households experienced “major flooding” impacts, which, had a federal disaster been declared, would qualify residents for disaster assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Another 30 homes were “likely flooded,” and 29 other properties were inundated, but floodwater didn’t get inside any building.

“According to FEMA, anything over 18 inches of water in the house is considered a major impact,” Bown-Crawford explained. “We also want to [note] that just one inch of water in your home can cause tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage. The 18 inches is definitely a FEMA threshold, and we’re not holding ourselves to that, but we really have 42 households with ‘major flooding’ impacts [resulting in the loss of] appliances, flooring, dry wall, home goods and furniture.”

Humboldt COAD is currently focused on helping low-income residents complete insurance claims and find the funding needed to cover steep deductibles. 

“People cannot afford these deductibles,” Bown-Crawford said, noting that about 55 percent of households surveyed made less than $50,000 last year. “Multiple households that we’ve talked to have the insurance, but they just can’t afford the deductible, and so they’re opting to try and do the work themselves as best they can afford. … Flood cleanup is kind of a yucky cleanup … because there’s a lot of those hidden things that are happening that can be damaged and exist for years and years after the flood.”

One of those hidden culprits is mold. Valeri Mihanovich, an emergency resources coordinator with CalOES, urged residents to check for mold in flood-damaged homes, even if it’s not visible. 

“If you can smell it, it’s super, super important to figure out how to remediate the mold as soon as possible,” she said, adding that CalOES has clean-up kits available. Additional mold remediation resources can be found at this link.

Want to lend a hand? Humboldt COAD is seeking donations for impacted residents, including plywood, dehumidifiers, fans, extension cords, towels, bedding, laundry supplies, refrigerators, laundry machines, hot water heaters, gift cards and transportation assistance.

You can find a full list of donation items and learn how to donate here.

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This story was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters.

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California legislative Democrats are urging their congressional colleagues to shut down the federal government and block further funding to immigration enforcement agencies after agents shot and killed another civilian in Minnesota over the weekend.

At least 50 Democratic state senators and assemblymembers — more than half the party’s caucus — on Monday decried the slaying of Alex Pretti, the Minneapolis resident and Veterans Affairs intensive care nurse who on Saturday was gunned down by federal immigration enforcement agents.

The lawmakers proclaimed their solidarity with Minnesota and other cities and states that have been targeted by federal law enforcement agents. They railed against what they called the Trump administration’s militarization of American cities as some wiped away tears.

The previously bipartisan spending package, which would fund the departments of Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services and Homeland Security, awaits a vote in the U.S. Senate, where an increasing number of Democrats have vowed to filibuster it.

But California lawmakers warned that Senate Democrats, many of whom represent battleground states, might cave and give Republicans the votes they need to push the measure to President Donald Trump’s desk.

“This message is for Sen. Chuck Schumer,” said Assemblymember Liz Ortega, Democrat of Hayward. “Do your job. Stand for something. Don’t fold again.”

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, Democrat of Salinas, called for Schumer to “step aside” if he couldn’t keep his caucus in lockstep.

Rivas and his colleagues also had a message for Republican lawmakers.

“We need you to speak out. You cannot watch these videos coming out of Minneapolis, Minn. and think that this is acceptable,” Rivas said. “We need your voice, we need your solidarity, and standing up for American values.”

In reference to the fact that Pretti was apparently carrying a permitted weapon, Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez of Los Angeles quoted a 2018 tweet from the late Charlie Kirk, which stated that the Second Amendment wasn’t for hunting or self protection, but “to ensure that free people can defend themselves if, god forbid, government became tyrannical and turned against its citizens.”

“What do you call a masked agent killing people in the street? What do you call children being taken from families?” Gonzalez said.

He noted that the National Rifle Association condemned premature conclusions about the shooting as “dangerous and wrong.”

“Even the NRA is calling out the dangerous ignorance of federal officials trying to excuse the killing of Alex Pretti,” Gonzalez said. “When even staunch defenders of the Second Amendment recognize the need for accountability, we must listen.”

So far, California Republicans have targeted their criticism mainly at Democrats. Republican legislative leadership deferred to other members of their caucus when asked for comment.

Sen. Tony Strickland, Republican of Huntington Beach, said Democratic officials have created risky and unsafe conditions for both the agents and civilian onlookers through so-called “sanctuary” policies that limit local and state law enforcement from working with federal immigration agents. They argue that those policies create risky situations where civilians like Pretti feel they need to monitor and track officers.

“Stop the rhetoric that ICE agents are Gestapo, that they’re secret police, that they’re Nazis,” said Assemblymember James Gallagher of Chico, the former Republican Assembly leader who recently announced his bid for the special election to fulfill the final months of the late Rep. Doug LaMalfa’s congressional term. “This type of rhetoric is helping to contribute to the chaotic environment in places like Minnesota.”

Gallagher called Pretti’s death a “terrible thing” and called for an independent investigation and accountability.

Legislation calls for greater ICE oversight

Some lawmakers are committing to introduce new measures to curtail the power of federal agents.

“Certainly this is a frustrating situation because so much of the power and the authority here is in the hands of the federal government in Washington, D.C., but that doesn’t mean that the answer for us is to do nothing,” said Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, Democrat of Encino.

Gabriel plans to introduce a bill that would require the California attorney general to conduct an independent investigation into any shooting by federal immigration enforcement agents in the state, an extension of an existing law that already requires such investigations for shootings by local and state law enforcement. He will also co-author a bill with Assemblymember Juan Carrillo that would ban federal immigration enforcement agencies from using state resources to facilitate tIn summary More than half of California’s Democratic legislative caucus called for a government shutdown and introduced bills to hold federal agents accountableheir operations, such as staging equipment and personnel on state property.

“We have to use every tool at our disposal, every lawful opportunity that we have to use our power, our authority to think of all of the different ways that we can push back,” Gabriel said.

Also on deck for a vote in the California Senate this week is Senate Bill 747 co-authored by Sen. Aisha Wahab of Hayward and Sen. Scott Wiener, a San Francisco Democrat who is running to replace Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi in Congress, that would allow Californians to sue federal agents for civil rights violations. The bill builds upon Wiener’s measure from last year that banned federal immigration enforcement agents from wearing masks, which Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law.

Wiener argued that the issue should not be partisan.

“This is really about everyone’s rights under any federal administration,” Wiener told CalMatters on Monday. “Local and state law enforcement are already subject to civil rights liability if they violate someone’s rights, and federal agents effectively are not,” he said.

“This is simply seeking to apply the same standards for all law enforcement.”

Tiannah Dawn Simpson
1984-2026

Beloved mother, sister, daughter, niece, cousin and friend.

Tiannah was born December 21, 1984 to Lisa Bates and Aawok Jonny Simpson, her beloved Grandparents Aawok Vivian and John Simpson Sr., in Hoopa. She was loved and cared for by many family members and numerous friends. She will be forever missed.

Tiannah grew up and spent majority of her life at Notchko, her home. She attended Jack Norton Elementary and Hoopa High School. Along the years of her life, she grew relationships and lifelong friendships with many who loved her. Spending holidays with her family all the birthday parties, she made it to every Easter egg hunt and Halloween party. She loved to dress up, especially for Halloween. Tiannah had the best sense of humor — always joking, teasing or just having fun in the moment. Let’s remember her beauty, her smile, always done up looking her best or working hard to get whichever current job done. She was a handy woman, a true jack of all traits.

She was fierce when it came to her family. She loved hard. In 2011 she gave birth to and welcomed the love of her life Pey-Goy Sean John Denten Simpson-Jewell at Mad River Hospital. It was the best day of her life. Over the years Pey-Goy was her rock, her homing beacon, her best friend, her everything whom she loved and cherished.

Tiannah is preceded death by her daughter, Babygirl Notchko Simpson-Devine; loving grandparents Vivian and John Simpson Sr.; great-grandmother Lillian Shermoen; father, Jonny Simpson; sister Cindy Simpson; uncle Gerald “Squeaker” Bacon; aunts Cindy Simpson, Elsie “Mindo” Bacon, Bonnie “Hoddy” Green, Carmen “Auntie Boo Boo” Maroni.

Tiannah is survived by her son, Pey-Goy Simpson; brother Sean Simpson; sister-in-law Brenda Simpson; nephews Coben Simpson, Troy Green; niece Stella Green; mother, Lisa Bates; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, too many to be listed.

Tiannah was a one of a kind soul, whom will forever be remembered in our hearts and thoughts. We all loved her and she loved each of us.

There will be services held on Saturday, January 31 at the Shaker Church in Pecwan starting at 12 p.m, following burial at cemetery. A potluck gathering will follow at Notchko river bar afterwards. Contact (707) 267-1078 for further information regarding services and potluck gathering.

Thank you for supporting our family in thoughts and prayers at this time or loss.