Inside the Issues: The Podcast

California's primary election is a little over two weeks away, and big money is making its way into local races — pitting moderate Democrats against progressive Democrats.

Plus, the Senate race heats up with Rep. Adam Schiff launching ads featuring Republican Steve Garvey. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and co-host Sara Sadhwani look into whether Schiff could be trying to elevate his profile to his benefit.

Finally, tides shift when it comes to campaigning, with many candidates pivoting from traditional exposure outlets like debates to joining TikTok.

Rep. Adam Schiff continues in the lead in California's Senate race, but former professional baseball player Steve Garvey poses a threat to another Democrat that aspires to make it to the general election ballot.

Plus, after Nikki Haley's embarrassing defeat in Nevada, what her candidacy brings to the presidential race.

Finally, "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and Ben Oreskes from the LA Times discuss the latest blow to journalism and what the future of their profession looks like amid a changing landscape.

Immigration seems to be the No. 1 issue across the country, and Republicans are attempting to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas over it.

The issue will play out in some congressional districts in California, potentially shifting the balance of power in the House. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down those races in the Golden State.

Then, Rep. Katie Porter's U.S. House seat is open as she runs for Senate, and two Democrats are battling each other to keep it blue.

And cleanup on aisle 6. Gov. Gavin Newsom went shopping at Target and you won't believe what happened.

Republican strategist Anne Hyde Dunsmore joins "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen to dissect former President Donald Trump's sweeping win in New Hampshire and how Nikki Haley has managed to get under his skin.

Plus, Republican Steve Garvey joins three Democratic candidates on stage in the Senate race, but his chances of making it on the ballot could depend on one Democrat in particular.

Finally, the plan that could already be in play by democrats to have Gov. Gavin Newsom replace President Joe Biden on the presidential ticket.

As "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen is on a much-deserved break, co-host Sara Sadhwani is joined by Los Angeles City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez to discuss her role in selecting the LA Police Department's next chief of police.

Plus, as a member of the Housing and Homelessness Committee, Rodriguez comments on the cost of Mayor Karen Bass' Inside Safe program and a settlement to provide 20,000 beds for homeless people.

Finally, Rodriguez shares her thoughts on the efforts of another councilmember to ban rodeos in the city.

Gov. Gavin Newsom revealed his budget plans to address an almost $38 billion deficit this week. During the presentation, he slammed the Wall Street Journal for a recent wealth tax editorial.

"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break it down.

Then, there's been some notable departures in leadership in Los Angeles. Both the LA Times executive editor and the LADWP president stepped down from their roles.

And Hunter Biden caused a commotion in Congress before his court appearance in downtown LA.

• Read the Governor's Budget Summary
• Read the Politico piece on Anthony York

A local bakery closed its doors after three decades and blamed the high cost of doing business in California.

"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani look at the trend that could further impact the states' $68 billion deficit.

Also, the attempt to get former President Donald Trump off of the primary ballot in California highlights a divide between Gov. Gavin Newsom and his lieutenant governor.

Lastly, they discuss the disruption that protesters calling for a cease-fire in Gaza caused on the first day of California legislative session.

"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen wraps up the year by interviewing California Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, who Politico recently described as an "ambitious politician."

Bryan comments on that label and explains why he opposed a bill to make the sex trafficking of a minor a serious crime in California.

Plus, he outlines his priorities as the new chair of the Natural Resources Committee.

As we wrap up the year, "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen is bringing listeners conversations with politicians who are ones to watch in 2024, including California's Attorney General Rob Bonta.

Bonta discusses his approach to fighting climate change and recent changes in school districts through litigation, his successful lawsuits against the Trump administration and his interest in running for governor.

Bonta was tapped to be the new attorney general when Xavier Becera took on a new role in the Biden administration.

Malibu's own Hunter Biden, beaten down and his reputation in the mud, makes his case for redemption — on the steps of Congress.

"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down the additional scrutiny he is facing.

Then, traffic jams are nothing new in Los Angeles, but a recent one that impacted the 110 Freeway was politically motivated.

What message did it send and will it change anyone's mind?

And it's the most wonderful time of the year, with a number of elected officials celebrating their year anniversary. LA Mayor Karen Bass was one of them, and the hosts look back at her time in office and impact.