It’s the final episode of 2024! Scott, Alissa, Rachel, and Mike discuss the biggest (or most under-reported) stories of the year including the implosion of local media, trust in elected officials, 2028 Olympics leadership, and the breakdown of LA City services. Plus, the co-hosts make some predictions for 2025 and beyond.

Take Mike’s local media survey! Mike will be interviewing journalists on his podcast, What’s Next, Los Angeles?

The Guardian: “LA Times owner asks editorial board to ‘take a break’ from writing about Trump - report"

California Democrats shifted right due to the state’s cost of living: "A recent report from the Legislature’s fiscal advisor, the Legislative Analyst’s Office, says that living costs have risen nearly 20% since January 2020, driven by a 41.5% jump in housing and utility costs."

LAT columnist Mark Barabak on "how organized labor boosted California Democrats"

The Wrap: "Billie Eilish Dumps Casey Wasserman After Scandal Over Extramarital Affairs” & “Casey Wasserman Says He Won’t Step Down as LA Olympics Chair"

Alissa’s Torched story on Executive Directive 9

Investing in Place on LA’s "Comprehensive, Multi-Year Capital Infrastructure Plan”

Produced by Sophie Bridges