Recorded on 1/21, prior to Mayor Matt Mahan's announcement of his candidacy for Governor.

In this episode, host Jot Condie engages with three prominent California political journalists: Marisa Lagos, Melanie Mason, and Nikki Laurenzo. The panel discusses the current political landscape in California, focusing on Governor Gavin Newsom's legacy and the crowded field of candidates vying for the governorship. They evaluate Newsom's achievements and challenges during his tenure, including healthcare expansion and housing issues. The conversation shifts to the upcoming election, highlighting the influence of money in politics and the dynamics of candidate recognition and voter engagement. The panelists provide insights into the potential frontrunners and the evolving nature of California politics.

Chapters

00:00 Gavin Newsom's Legacy and Challenges

08:32 The Race to Replace Newsom: Candidates and Dynamics

21:40 The Dynamics of the Democratic Primary Race

25:43 The Role of Media in Candidate Visibility

31:18 Voter Sentiment and the Trump Factor

37:54 The Influence of Money in Politics

44:22 Identifying the Next Generation of Leaders

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In this episode of the On the Fly, host Jot Condie engages with three prominent California political journalists: Marisa Lagos, Melanie Mason, and Nikki Laurenzo. This is just a teaser of the great conversation coming next week, as these three journalists lay out the field to replace Gavin Newsome as Governor & just what his legacy in California will look like. Don’t miss it!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Part Two of our discussion, Jot Condie and guests Jennifer Barrera (CalChamber), Brian Maas (California New Car Dealers Association), and Dave Puglia (Western Growers) delve into Governor Newsom's final year in office, examining his shifting role amidst California's affordability crisis and its implications for businesses and the next generation of leaders. The conversation covers the governor’s increased engagement on policy details, the challenges of a budget deficit, and the ongoing out-migration of taxpayers. They also discuss the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial race and the importance of concrete action from candidates on affordability. Finally, they reflect on the early impacts of PAGA reform and its benefits for small businesses. Don’t miss this insightful exploration!

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In Part One of this special two-part episode, host Jot Condie (California Restaurant Association) sits down with three leaders representing the auto, agriculture, and statewide business communities:

• Jennifer Barrera, California Chamber of Commerce
• Brian Maas, California New Car Dealers Association
• Dave Puglia, Western Growers

Together, they break down the real-world pressures shaping California’s economy—from tariffs and labor shortages to affordability and policy uncertainty. Hear candid insights from industries on the front lines and keep an eye out for Part Two coming this December, where we explore what businesses should prepare for next.

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Join us for a captivating episode of the CRA’s Confidential Bulletin podcast as Jot Condie sits down with Matt Sutton, CRA's Senior Vice President for Government Affairs and Public Policy. Discover the unique challenges and opportunities posed by a wave of new lawmakers in the California legislature. From building relationships to effectively communicating the distinct needs of the restaurant industry, Matt shares invaluable insights on the legislative process. Tune in for a deep dive into the dynamics of advocacy in California!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Get a sneak peek of this episode of the CRA’s Confidential Bulletin podcast, where Jot Condie speaks with Matt Sutton, CRA's Senior Vice President for Government Affairs and Public Policy. They discuss the impact of a new class of lawmakers in California and the unique opportunities and challenges that come with it. Hear how relationship building and communication are key to advocating for the restaurant industry's distinct needs. Don’t miss this quick preview of our in-depth discussion on the legislative landscape! Full episode launched Thursday, October 30th.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Legal Partner Vance Piggot, Shareholder at Kronick Law Firm, joins Megan Gamble with the CRA to answer questions on Prop. 65 changes. Don’t get caught off-guard! New Prop. 65 claims have been rolling in throughout the state. CRA members can download a printable sign at www.calrest.org/store and contact our Legal Center help line at [email protected] to make sure they are properly covered.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join co-hosts and CRA Board Members Joseph Pitruzzelli (Wurstkuche) and Ben Shahvar (Buttercup Restaurants) at the California Restaurant Show where they have lively conversations and give insights on what's going on in the industry with other restaurateurs, employment lawyers, and vendors.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alycia Harshfield (CRF President) sits down with Fred Glick (Karl Strauss) to talk about his unique take as incoming Chair of both the California Restaurant Association and Foundation. The duo returns to the Confidential Bulletin with a primer on how the Foundation and Association work in tandem to support the goal of a healthy restaurant industry and community in California. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever wonder why you’re paying licensing fees to play great music that set the vibe in your restaurants? Listen to Grammy Award winning songwriter Tim James tell his fascinating story and how royalties support his family, followed by Dan Spears VP of Industry Relations at BMI who talks about how licensing fees are essential the craft and the unknown songwriter.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.