California Underground: Your Sane Insight into California Politics

In this episode of the California Underground Podcast, host Phil dives into the early presidential ambitions of California Governor Gavin Newsom, exploring his strategic moves in South Carolina and the implications for the Democratic primary. The episode also tackles California's housing crisis, examining recent legislative changes and their potential impact on urban development. Additionally, Phil discusses the controversy surrounding the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority and the challenges of accountability in homelessness spending. Tune in for an insightful analysis of California politics and governance. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated with the latest episodes!

Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics.

Original air date  7.15.25

Chapters

00:00 Gavin Newsom's Presidential Aspirations

16:34 California's Housing Crisis and Legislative Actions

32:51 Government Oversight and Accountability in California

38:43 Corruption and Mismanagement in Homeless Services

45:43 The Homeless Industrial Complex: A Financial Drain

49:23 Success Stories: Private Charities Making a Difference

55:23 The Case for Nonprofits Over Government Solutions

*The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.*

Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live

Join our Discord server https://discord.gg/Tzp8d5xw 

Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order

Follow California Underground on Social Media  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground 

X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA 

Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/ 

In this episode of the California Underground Podcast, host Phil discusses California's defiance of federal orders regarding transgender athletes in school sports, the state's potential shift towards increased oil drilling amidst rising gas prices, and the immigration crackdowns led by ICE in Los Angeles. The conversation also touches on the irony of protests in Mexico City against American expats while advocating for undocumented immigrants in California.

Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics.

Original air date  7.8.25

Chapters

00:00 California's Stance on Trans Athletes

13:29 The Shift Towards Oil Production

29:36 Political Implications and Public Sentiment

31:38 California's Political Landscape and Public Servants

32:27 Immigration Crackdown in Los Angeles

34:57 California Wildfires and Recovery Efforts

37:36 Gavin Newsom's Presidential Aspirations

39:00 Karen Bass and Federal Immigration Enforcement

45:11 Protests in Mexico City: A Cultural Irony

*The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.*

Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live

Join our Discord server https://discord.gg/Tzp8d5xw 

Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order

Follow California Underground on Social Media  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground 

X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA 

Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/ 

California Legislature and Gavin Newsom agree to a budget for the next year and you’ll never guess who benefits most from it (spoiler it’s not everyday Californians). California is also likely headed towards a recession because of the loss of private sector jobs. Rob Bonta wants to ban your fantasy football league, and Newsom sues Fox News for $787 million for alleged defamation. Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics.Original air date 7.1.25*The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.*Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.liveJoin our Discord server https://discord.gg/Tzp8d5xw Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your orderFollow California Underground on Social Media  Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergoundTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/

While Los Angeles was descending into chaos on June 7th over ICE raids, Gavin Newsom was in Napa Valley at an exclusive wine sipping event. Kamala Harris is reportedly “seriously” considering running for governor of California. California once proposed amending the Constitution to create a “world federal government.” Newsom loses again to President Trump in court over his use of the California National Guard. Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics.Original air date 6.24.25#kamalaharris #gavinnewsom #presidenttrump #californiapolitics #californiagovernor #losangeles #napavalley*The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.*Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.liveCheck out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your orderFollow California Underground on Social Media  Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergoundTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/

In this episode of the California Underground podcast, Phil discusses key political issues affecting California, including the controversy surrounding a Spanish national anthem performance at a Dodgers game, Senator Alex Padilla's dramatic actions during a DHS press conference, and the state's ongoing budget crisis. The conversation highlights the intersection of politics and culture, the implications of rising spending, and shifting public opinion on immigration and healthcare policies.

Chapters

01:05 The Controversy of the Spanish National Anthem

11:05 Senator Alex Padilla's Dramatic Incident

25:55 California's Spending Problem and Budget Deficit

Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics.

Original air date  617.25

*The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.*

Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live

Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order

Follow California Underground on Social Media  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground 

X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA 

Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/ 

In this episode of the California Underground Podcast, hosts Phil and Camille discuss the recent chaos in Los Angeles, sparked by ICE raids and subsequent protests. They review news shorts from the past weekend and comment on political leaders like Newsom and Bass who appear to be posturing for political purposes rather than out of principle. They end the show discussing the human cost of allowing these protests and riots to go on.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Los Angeles' Political Chaos

03:25 The Timeline of Protests and ICE Raids

06:20 The Role of Local Leaders and Law Enforcement

09:17 Media Coverage and Public Perception

12:25 Political Responses and Accountability

15:08 The Impact of Federal Intervention

17:43 Concluding Thoughts on the Situation

37:34 Federalizing the National Guard: Historical Context

39:37 Political Pride and the Refusal for Help

42:33 Gavin Newsom's Leadership and Accountability

45:39 Democracy vs. Citizens' Needs in California

47:46 The Shift in Public Opinion on Immigration

51:32 Gavin Newsom's Presidential Aspirations

58:15 Media Reactions and Public Sentiment

01:02:21 The Humanitarian Perspective on Immigration

01:07:25 The Need for Immigration Reform

01:12:35 The Impact of Political Posturing on Citizens

01:19:53 Final Thoughts: The Human Cost of Political Decisions

Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics.

Original air date  6.10.25

*The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.*

Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live

Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order

Follow California Underground on Social Media  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground 

X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA 

Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/ 

In this episode of the California Underground Podcast, hosts Phil and Camille discuss significant developments in California politics, including the recent Senate vote to overturn California's gas car ban waiver, the implications of Bill Essayli's new immigration program, and Gavin Newsom's executive order mandating zero-emission vehicles. The conversation delves into the complexities of state versus federal authority, the potential impact on California's economy, and the challenges of transitioning to electric vehicles amidst existing infrastructure issues.

Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics.

Original air date  5.27.25

*The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.*

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

03:00 California Gas Car Ban Discussion

06:46 Local Politics and Bill Essayli's New Program

20:54 Gavin Newsom's Executive Order on Gas Cars

29:41 The Electric Vehicle Dilemma

32:41 Challenges of Electric Trucks

35:40 California's Environmental Policies and Hypocrisy

39:40 Federal vs. State Regulations on Emissions

51:43 The Role of Government in Electric Vehicle Adoption

Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live

Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order

Follow California Underground on Social Media  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground 

X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA 

Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/ 

ICE conducts a raid on a San Diego restaurant and Democrats lose their minds over it. San Francisco attempts to introduce "equity" grading before backing down, and AB84 threatens to cut funding for charter schools. All on this episode of the California Underground Podcast. Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast for all things California politics. Original air date 6.3.25

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to California Politics Podcast

05:16 ICE Raid at Boniforte Restaurant

28:45 San Francisco's Grading for Equity Proposal

31:09 Grading for Equity: A Controversial Proposal

37:06 The Need for Educational Reform

42:45 Charter Schools and Funding Challenges

52:43 Looking Ahead: Future Discussions on EducationLinks to ResourcesSan Francisco Introduces Equity Grading, Then Immediatly Backs Down - https://thevoicesf.org/grading-for-equity-coming-to-san-francisco-high-schools-this-fall/ - https://sfstandard.com/2025/05/28/sfusd-equity-grading-san-francisco-controversy/To Find and Contact Your State Legislator: https://findyourrep.legislature.ca.gov/ *The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.*Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.liveFollow California Underground on Social Media Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergoundTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/

In this episode of the California Underground Podcast, host Phil discusses several pressing issues in California politics, including the recently passed 'One Big Beautiful Bill' and its implications for tax cuts and spending. He also delves into the controversy surrounding LA Mayor Karen Bass and her deletion of text messages during the LA wildfire crisis, highlighting the legal ramifications of such actions. Additionally, the podcast covers the financial strain of California's healthcare system for undocumented citizens and the potential for new taxes to support these initiatives. Phil emphasizes the importance of accountability and transparency in government, while also exploring the future of California politics and the challenges ahead for both parties.

Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics.

Original air date  5.22.25

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to California Politics Podcast

02:43 The One Big Beautiful Bill: Overview and Implications

15:31 Karen Bass and the Text Message Controversy

30:51 California's Healthcare for Undocumented Citizens: A Financial Crisis

33:28 California's Budget Crisis and Political Accountability

42:52 Healthcare Policy and Its Implications

49:48 The Role of Taxes in California's Budget

56:25 Democrats' Choice of How to Pass New Taxes

01:00:55 Political Ammo for California Republicans?

*The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.*

Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live

Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order

Follow California Underground on Social Media  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground 

X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA 

Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/ 

In this episode of the California Underground Podcast, hosts Phil and Camille discuss significant issues in California politics, focusing on San Diego's budget crisis under Mayor Todd Gloria, the implications of budget cuts on community services, and the ongoing corruption within LA's Homeless Services Authority. T

Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics.

Original air date  5.13.25

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to California Politics Podcast

03:25 Cringe Moment of the Week: Bernie Sanders

06:28 San Diego's Budget Deficit and Todd Gloria's Proposal

09:37 La Jolla's Secession Attempt and Its Implications

13:30 Public Services Cuts: Libraries and Arts Programs

15:23 Community Reactions to Budget Cuts

18:19 The Impact of Political Promises on City Budgets

21:29 Monopolies in City Services: Trash Collection and More

24:17 Controversial Spending: Rainbow Flag Project

27:30 Conclusion and Future Implications

36:46 Budget Shortfalls and City Projects

41:47 Public Servants and Salary Cuts

45:10 Local Elections Matter

46:51 Corruption in LA's Homeless Services

59:35 Government Connections and Accountability

*The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.*

Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live

Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order

Follow California Underground on Social Media  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground 

X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA 

Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/