CBS Sacramento expands ‘Bear Politics’ into year-round political reporting unit

CBS Sacramento has established a dedicated political reporting unit under its “Bear Politics” franchise, expanding KOVR’s coverage of California government, elections and public policy beyond election cycles.

The unit brings together political reporters Steve Large and Darrielle Fair with political analyst Gary Dietrich. Their reporting will appear across the station’s television newscasts, streaming programming and digital platforms.

Scott Warren, regional president and general manager of CBS Sacramento and CBS Bay Area (KPIX), announced the expansion ahead of California’s Nov. 3, 2026, general election.

The move formalizes an existing political reporting franchise into a year-round operation, with coverage extending beyond campaigns to legislative decisions, state government and local policy issues.

“Sacramento is at the center of decisions that affect millions of Californians, and audiences deserve political reporting that extends beyond campaigns and election night,” Warren said in a statement.

“The Bear Politics unit brings together an experienced team committed to asking consequential questions, providing meaningful context and helping people understand how decisions made at the Capitol and in their communities affect their daily lives,” he added.

The “Bear Politics” franchise previously operated as a collaborative reporting effort involving journalists from CBS Sacramento and CBS Bay Area. Its coverage focused on statewide political disputes, government decisions and public policy developments.

That work earned a regional Emmy Award in 2024.

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The expanded operation will concentrate its reporting resources in Sacramento, California, where the state Capitol provides access to lawmakers, government agencies and policymakers whose decisions affect communities throughout the state.

Large and Fair will continue reporting on political developments, elected officials, elections and issues affecting local and statewide audiences.

Dietrich will provide political analysis drawing on his experience in government and electoral campaigns. A graduate of Harvard Kennedy School, he previously worked for the California State Assembly and California State Senate.

His political background also includes involvement in legislative and presidential campaigns.

The combination of reporters and a political analyst is intended to provide both original news coverage and additional context about the political process, including the potential effects of legislation and government decisions.

Ahead of the Nov. 3 election, the team will produce candidate interviews, election reporting and analysis of issues appearing on California ballots.

The unit will also contribute to CBS Sacramento’s election night coverage and continue following political developments after the votes are counted.

The expansion comes as local television news organizations seek ways to distinguish their reporting across broadcast and digital platforms. Sacramento’s position as California’s capital provides the station with opportunities to cover state government decisions with both local and statewide significance.

“Bear Politics” reporting will be available through CBS Sacramento’s newscasts, streaming coverage and website at CBSNews.com/Sacramento.