Caught in the crossfire
Tomo Chien
October 03, 2025
Good morning. It’s Friday, and these are the five USC, Los Angeles, and California stories you need to know for today.
1.
Gov. Gavin Newsom threatened to cut state funding from USC if it accepts the Trump administration’s offer of priority access to federal dollars in exchange for sweeping conservative reforms. “California will not bankroll schools that sell out their students, professors, researchers, and surrender academic freedom,” Newsom said.
2.
USC students have mixed feelings about the school’s decision to continue considering legacy status in admissions. “Legacy admissions might have to be a part of USC because I think a lot of the donors are legacy,” one student said. “Legacy admissions are so outdated,” said another. “Who cares if your parents went here?”
3.
A stunning investigation found that a law firm illegally paid plaintiffs to sue LA County, and in some cases encouraged them to fabricate stories of sexual abuse in juvenile halls. In April, those claims helped force the county to pay a record $4 billion settlement. Taxpayers footed that bill.
4.
A massive fire broke out last night at an El Segundo oil refinery, sending a column of smoke and flames in the air that were visible from miles away. The facility was still burning as of Friday morning. No injuries were reported.
5.
California earned nearly half the places on Yelp’s annual “Top 100 Taco Spots” list. Birrieria Familia Castro in North Hollywood — praised by reviewers for its juicy birria and “super friendly” service — took the top spot in the country. Holbox, which is just south of USC, was ranked fifth.