Since 1911, Californians have been allowed a direct role in legislation via the initiative and referendum process. This year’s November ballot features 14 measures, including the Billionaire Wealth Tax, two “affordability” programs that will make housing more expensive, and a bid to make the nation’s highest marginal income-tax rate a permanent impediment to prosperity. 
Bonus! David discusses the birth today of his fifth book, “Profit from the Profit.” Music by Metalachi. 
  
Email Us: <a href="mailto:dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com</a> <a href="mailto:will@calpolicycenter.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">will@calpolicycenter.org</a>
Follow Us: <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidBahnsen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@DavidBahnsen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WillSwaim" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@WillSwaim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRadioFreeCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@TheRadioFreeCA</a>
Show Notes: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GZ8CJ9GT?lv=shuf&bestFormat=true&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_DWNC1NY0YR1NWM6RQ756&channelId=704&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_DWNC1NY0YR1NWM6RQ756&plpRedirect=mhFallback" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">David Bahnsen’s “Profit from the profit”</a> 
  
This episode's advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit Law
<ul>
 <li><a href="http://npolawyers.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">NPOlawyers.com</a></li>
 <li><a href="http://boardtrainingprinciples.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">boardtrainingprinciples.com</a></li>
</ul> Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Since 1911, Californians have been allowed a direct role in legislation via the initiative and referendum process. This year’s November ballot features 14 measures, including the Billionaire Wealth Tax, two “affordability” programs that will make housing more expensive, and a bid to make the nation’s highest marginal income-tax rate a permanent impediment to prosperity. Bonus! David discusses the birth today of his fifth book, “Profit from the Profit.” Music by Metalachi. Email Us: dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com will@calpolicycenter.org Follow Us: @DavidBahnsen @WillSwaim @TheRadioFreeCA Show Notes: David Bahnsen’s “Profit from the profit” This episode's advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit Law NPOlawyers.com boardtrainingprinciples.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Since 1911, Californians have been allowed a direct role in legislation via the initiative and referendum process. This year’s November ballot features 14 measures, including the Billionaire Wealth Tax, two “affordability” programs that will make housing more expensive, and a bid to make the nation’s highest marginal income-tax rate a permanent impediment to prosperity.&nbsp;
Bonus! David discusses the birth today of his fifth book, “Profit from the Profit.” Music by Metalachi. 
 &nbsp;
Email Us: <a href="mailto:dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com</a> <a href="mailto:will@calpolicycenter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer">will@calpolicycenter.org</a>
Follow Us: <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidBahnsen" rel="noopener noreferrer">@DavidBahnsen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WillSwaim" rel="noopener noreferrer">@WillSwaim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRadioFreeCA" rel="noopener noreferrer">@TheRadioFreeCA</a>
Show Notes: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GZ8CJ9GT?lv=shuf&amp;bestFormat=true&amp;social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_DWNC1NY0YR1NWM6RQ756&amp;channelId=704&amp;ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_DWNC1NY0YR1NWM6RQ756&amp;plpRedirect=mhFallback" rel="noopener noreferrer">David Bahnsen’s “Profit from the profit”</a> 
 &nbsp;
This episode's advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit Law
<ul>
 <li><a href="http://npolawyers.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">NPOlawyers.com</a></li>
 <li><a href="http://boardtrainingprinciples.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">boardtrainingprinciples.com</a></li>
</ul> Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 462: California Ballot Boxing

In 1999, the last time California boosted the benefits it pays government employees – earlier retirements, richer retirements – financial disaster followed quickly. Now, state lawmakers want Newsom to try it again. We fact-check Newsom’s claims on housing starts (terrible) and jobs (worse). Iowa’s AG sues California for blocking the Paramount-Warner merger. Now that he’s successful, Mark Zuckerberg says social media companies must be regulated. David and Will break down the Nick Shirley Act. Music by Metalachi. 
  
Email Us: <a href="mailto:dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com</a> <a href="mailto:will@calpolicycenter.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">will@calpolicycenter.org</a>
Follow Us: <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidBahnsen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@DavidBahnsen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WillSwaim" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@WillSwaim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRadioFreeCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@TheRadioFreeCA</a>
Show Notes: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GZ8CJ9GT?lv=shuf&bestFormat=true&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_DWNC1NY0YR1NWM6RQ756&channelId=704&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_DWNC1NY0YR1NWM6RQ756&plpRedirect=mhFallback" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">David Bahnsen’s “Profit from the profit”</a> <a href="https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/august-29/ishi-discovered-in-california" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ishi discovered in California</a>  <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/26/technology/meta-settlement-social-media-addiction-lawsuit.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meta to Pay Up to $17.1 Billion in Landmark Settlement Over Social Media Addiction Claims</a> <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2026/08/22/hardly-any-ai-regulations-becerra-should-know-better/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“Hardly any” AI regulations? Becerra should know better</a> <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/to-save-american-movies-im-taking-california-to-the-supreme-court" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Iowa Attorney General Says She’s Taking California to the Supreme Court Over Paramount-Warner Bros. Lawsuit</a> <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2026/08/30/gavin-newsom-still-doesnt-understand-the-limits-of-his-power/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gavin Newsom still doesn’t understand the limits of his power</a> <a href="https://nypost.com/2026/08/29/us-news/california-set-to-force-big-companies-to-disclose-historic-links-to-slavery/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">California set to force big companies to disclose historic links to slavery</a> <a href="https://x.com/kennethschrupp/status/2093135810090745960?s=46" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kenneth Schrupp on Newsom’s jobs report</a> <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2026/08/27/newsoms-big-housing-claim-is-built-on-bad-data-01051194" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom’s big housing claim is built on bad data</a> <a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2026/08/pension-expansion-for-police-firefighters/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Lawmakers vote to let first responders retire earlier and with more money. Will Newsom sign on?</a> <a href="https://californiapolicycenter.org/ab-1383-is-a-costly-pension-mistake-in-the-making/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AB 1383 is a costly pension mistake in the making</a> <a href="https://bonta.asmdc.org/press-releases/20260822-ab-2624-signed-law-california-rejects-hated-fueled-misinformation-campaign" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AB 2624 signed into law, California rejects hated-filled (sic) misinformation campaign</a> <a href="https://www.wsj.com/opinion/the-public-sector-union-behind-los-angeles-immigration-agitation-0ccbc8a2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Will’s work here would likely be illegal under the Act</a> Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 1999, the last time California boosted the benefits it pays government employees – earlier retirements, richer retirements – financial disaster followed quickly. Now, state lawmakers want Newsom to try it again. We fact-check Newsom’s claims on housing starts (terrible) and jobs (worse). Iowa’s AG sues California for blocking the Paramount-Warner merger. Now that he’s successful, Mark Zuckerberg says social media companies must be regulated. David and Will break down the Nick Shirley Act. Music by Metalachi. Email Us: dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com will@calpolicycenter.org Follow Us: @DavidBahnsen @WillSwaim @TheRadioFreeCA Show Notes: David Bahnsen’s “Profit from the profit” Ishi discovered in California Meta to Pay Up to $17.1 Billion in Landmark Settlement Over Social Media Addiction Claims “Hardly any” AI regulations? Becerra should know better Iowa Attorney General Says She’s Taking California to the Supreme Court Over Paramount-Warner Bros. Lawsuit Gavin Newsom still doesn’t understand the limits of his power California set to force big companies to disclose historic links to slavery Kenneth Schrupp on Newsom’s jobs report Newsom’s big housing claim is built on bad data Lawmakers vote to let first responders retire earlier and with more money. Will Newsom sign on? AB 1383 is a costly pension mistake in the making AB 2624 signed into law, California rejects hated-filled (sic) misinformation campaign Will’s work here would likely be illegal under the Act Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 1999, the last time California boosted the benefits it pays government employees – earlier retirements, richer retirements – financial disaster followed quickly. Now, state lawmakers want Newsom to try it again. We fact-check Newsom’s claims on housing starts (terrible) and jobs (worse). Iowa’s AG sues California for blocking the Paramount-Warner merger. Now that he’s successful, Mark Zuckerberg says social media companies must be regulated. David and Will break down the Nick Shirley Act. Music by Metalachi. 
 &nbsp;
Email Us: <a href="mailto:dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com</a> <a href="mailto:will@calpolicycenter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer">will@calpolicycenter.org</a>
Follow Us: <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidBahnsen" rel="noopener noreferrer">@DavidBahnsen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WillSwaim" rel="noopener noreferrer">@WillSwaim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRadioFreeCA" rel="noopener noreferrer">@TheRadioFreeCA</a>
Show Notes: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GZ8CJ9GT?lv=shuf&amp;bestFormat=true&amp;social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_DWNC1NY0YR1NWM6RQ756&amp;channelId=704&amp;ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_DWNC1NY0YR1NWM6RQ756&amp;plpRedirect=mhFallback" rel="noopener noreferrer">David Bahnsen’s “Profit from the profit”</a> <a href="https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/august-29/ishi-discovered-in-california" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ishi discovered in California</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/26/technology/meta-settlement-social-media-addiction-lawsuit.html" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meta to Pay Up to $17.1 Billion in Landmark Settlement Over Social Media Addiction Claims</a> <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2026/08/22/hardly-any-ai-regulations-becerra-should-know-better/" rel="noopener noreferrer">“Hardly any” AI regulations? Becerra should know better</a> <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/to-save-american-movies-im-taking-california-to-the-supreme-court" rel="noopener noreferrer">Iowa Attorney General Says She’s Taking California to the Supreme Court Over Paramount-Warner Bros. Lawsuit</a> <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2026/08/30/gavin-newsom-still-doesnt-understand-the-limits-of-his-power/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gavin Newsom still doesn’t understand the limits of his power</a> <a href="https://nypost.com/2026/08/29/us-news/california-set-to-force-big-companies-to-disclose-historic-links-to-slavery/" rel="noopener noreferrer">California set to force big companies to disclose historic links to slavery</a> <a href="https://x.com/kennethschrupp/status/2093135810090745960?s=46" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kenneth Schrupp on Newsom’s jobs report</a> <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2026/08/27/newsoms-big-housing-claim-is-built-on-bad-data-01051194" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom’s big housing claim is built on bad data</a> <a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2026/08/pension-expansion-for-police-firefighters/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Lawmakers vote to let first responders retire earlier and with more money. Will Newsom sign on?</a> <a href="https://californiapolicycenter.org/ab-1383-is-a-costly-pension-mistake-in-the-making/" rel="noopener noreferrer">AB 1383 is a costly pension mistake in the making</a> <a href="https://bonta.asmdc.org/press-releases/20260822-ab-2624-signed-law-california-rejects-hated-fueled-misinformation-campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer">AB 2624 signed into law, California rejects hated-filled (sic) misinformation campaign</a> <a href="https://www.wsj.com/opinion/the-public-sector-union-behind-los-angeles-immigration-agitation-0ccbc8a2" rel="noopener noreferrer">Will’s work here would likely be illegal under the Act</a> Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 463: Return of the Living Debt

In Gavin Newsom’s California, artificial intelligence is apparently dangerous enough to require an expanding apparatus of government regulation, but, in the hands of the state, trustworthy enough to answer your questions about government itself. In other news, Inglewood bails on its SoFi Stadium debt, Ro Khanna embraces race hustling, and David learns about Star Trek's cultural ties to SoCal’s scientific community. Music by Metalachi.  Email Us: <a href="mailto:dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com</a> <a href="mailto:will@calpolicycenter.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">will@calpolicycenter.org</a>Follow Us: <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidBahnsen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@DavidBahnsen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WillSwaim" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@WillSwaim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRadioFreeCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@TheRadioFreeCA</a>Show Notes:<ul><li><a href="https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/september-8/star-trek-premieres" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">‘Star Trek’ premieres</a></li><li><a href="https://www.nationalreview.com/magazine/2026/10/the-new-generation-of-defense-wizards/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The New Generation of Defense Wizards</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/09/09/governor-newsom-signs-first-in-the-nation-ai-safeguards-to-protect-californians-calls-on-the-federal-government-to-do-its-part/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Governor Newsom signs first-in-the-nation AI safeguards to protect Californians, calls on the federal government to do its part</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/09/09/government-made-easier-governor-newsom-introduces-askca-a-new-ai-powered-tool-for-californians/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Government, made easier. Governor Newsom introduces AskCA, a new AI-powered tool for Californians</a></li><li><a href="https://betterfutureai.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Better Future AI</a></li><li><a href="https://x.com/DavidSacks/status/2098973625252708460?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">David Sacks on X: “Pace the frontier”</a></li><li><a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2026/09/11/california-wealth-tax-proponent-threatened-labor-officials-report-finds-01072488" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">California wealth tax proponent threatened labor officials, law firm’s report finds</a></li><li><a href="https://www.thefp.com/p/ro-khanna-race-hustler-racism-suicide-lynching" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ro Khanna, Race Hustler</a></li><li><a href="https://thelalocal.org/neighborhoods/inglewood/inglewood-sofi-stadium-contract-developers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The deal that helped bring SoFi Stadium to Inglewood isn’t legally valid, judge rules</a></li><li><a href="https://voiceofoc.org/2026/09/huntington-beach-approves-police-raises-amid-budget-deficit-projections/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Huntington Beach Approves Police Raises Amid Budget Deficit Projections</a></li></ul>This week’s advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit Law<ul><li><a href="http://npolawyers.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">NPOlawyers.com</a></li><li><a href="http://boardtrainingprinciples.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">boardtrainingprinciples.com</a></li></ul> Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Gavin Newsom’s California, artificial intelligence is apparently dangerous enough to require an expanding apparatus of government regulation, but, in the hands of the state, trustworthy enough to answer your questions about government itself. In other news, Inglewood bails on its SoFi Stadium debt, Ro Khanna embraces race hustling, and David learns about Star Trek's cultural ties to SoCal’s scientific community. Music by Metalachi. Email Us: dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com will@calpolicycenter.org Follow Us: @DavidBahnsen @WillSwaim @TheRadioFreeCA Show Notes:‘Star Trek’ premieresThe New Generation of Defense WizardsGovernor Newsom signs first-in-the-nation AI safeguards to protect Californians, calls on the federal government to do its partGovernment, made easier. Governor Newsom introduces AskCA, a new AI-powered tool for CaliforniansBetter Future AIDavid Sacks on X: “Pace the frontier”California wealth tax proponent threatened labor officials, law firm’s report findsRo Khanna, Race HustlerThe deal that helped bring SoFi Stadium to Inglewood isn’t legally valid, judge rulesHuntington Beach Approves Police Raises Amid Budget Deficit ProjectionsThis week’s advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit LawNPOlawyers.comboardtrainingprinciples.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Gavin Newsom’s California, artificial intelligence is apparently dangerous enough to require an expanding apparatus of government regulation, but, in the hands of the state, trustworthy enough to answer your questions about government itself. In other news, Inglewood bails on its SoFi Stadium debt, Ro Khanna embraces race hustling, and David learns about Star Trek's cultural ties to SoCal’s scientific community. Music by Metalachi. &nbsp;Email Us: <a href="mailto:dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com</a> <a href="mailto:will@calpolicycenter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer">will@calpolicycenter.org</a>Follow Us: <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidBahnsen" rel="noopener noreferrer">@DavidBahnsen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WillSwaim" rel="noopener noreferrer">@WillSwaim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRadioFreeCA" rel="noopener noreferrer">@TheRadioFreeCA</a>Show Notes:<ul><li><a href="https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/september-8/star-trek-premieres" rel="noopener noreferrer">‘Star Trek’ premieres</a></li><li><a href="https://www.nationalreview.com/magazine/2026/10/the-new-generation-of-defense-wizards/" rel="noopener noreferrer">The New Generation of Defense Wizards</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/09/09/governor-newsom-signs-first-in-the-nation-ai-safeguards-to-protect-californians-calls-on-the-federal-government-to-do-its-part/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Governor Newsom signs first-in-the-nation AI safeguards to protect Californians, calls on the federal government to do its part</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/09/09/government-made-easier-governor-newsom-introduces-askca-a-new-ai-powered-tool-for-californians/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Government, made easier. Governor Newsom introduces AskCA, a new AI-powered tool for Californians</a></li><li><a href="https://betterfutureai.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Better Future AI</a></li><li><a href="https://x.com/DavidSacks/status/2098973625252708460?s=20" rel="noopener noreferrer">David Sacks on X: “Pace the frontier”</a></li><li><a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2026/09/11/california-wealth-tax-proponent-threatened-labor-officials-report-finds-01072488" rel="noopener noreferrer">California wealth tax proponent threatened labor officials, law firm’s report finds</a></li><li><a href="https://www.thefp.com/p/ro-khanna-race-hustler-racism-suicide-lynching" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ro Khanna, Race Hustler</a></li><li><a href="https://thelalocal.org/neighborhoods/inglewood/inglewood-sofi-stadium-contract-developers/" rel="noopener noreferrer">The deal that helped bring SoFi Stadium to Inglewood isn’t legally valid, judge rules</a></li><li><a href="https://voiceofoc.org/2026/09/huntington-beach-approves-police-raises-amid-budget-deficit-projections/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Huntington Beach Approves Police Raises Amid Budget Deficit Projections</a></li></ul>This week’s advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit Law<ul><li><a href="http://npolawyers.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">NPOlawyers.com</a></li><li><a href="http://boardtrainingprinciples.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">boardtrainingprinciples.com</a></li></ul> Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 465: Bring In the Fembots!

Guest Jon Fleischman helps Will break down the news of the week, including Gavin Newsom’s remarkably weird interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, his AI alarmism, and his surprise legislative vetoes. Yet another major battery fire has climate activists wondering who to blame when “clean” energy goes awry. The city of Long Beach responds to the Soviet submarine in its harbor. And we remember the Siege of Los Angeles, September 22, 1846. Music by Metalachi.Email Us: <a href="mailto:dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com</a> <a href="mailto:will@calpolicycenter.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">will@calpolicycenter.org</a>Follow Us: <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidBahnsen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@DavidBahnsen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WillSwaim" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@WillSwaim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRadioFreeCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TheRadioFreeCA</a>Show Notes: <a href="https://www.sodoesitmatter.com/subscribe?utm_source=menu&gift=true&next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sodoesitmatter.com%2F" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Jon Fleischman, So Does It Matter Substack</a> <a href="https://transcripts.cnn.com/show/cg/date/2026-09-15/segment/01?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gavin Newsom tells CNN's Jake Tapper he won't run for president if Kamala Harris runs in 2028</a> <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/article/national-guard-california-newsom-22438702.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom signs bill barring other states from sending National Guard troops to California</a> <a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/09/18/governor-newsom-issues-executive-order-to-accelerate-independent-oversight-and-advance-the-creation-of-an-ai-kill-switch/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Governor Newsom issues executive order to accelerate independent oversight and advance the creation of an AI kill switch</a> <a href="https://www.sodoesitmatter.com/p/california-is-regulating-ai-backward" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Who Pays When AI Causes Harm? The “Kill Switch” Is Liability</a> <a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2026/09/newsom-veto-telework-bill/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom vetoes bill to loosen work-from-home rules for state workers</a> <a href="https://www.sodoesitmatter.com/p/republicans-help-seiu-defy-gavin" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Republicans Help SEIU Defy Gavin Newsom’s Return-to-Work Order - WTH?</a> <a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article317300040.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom vetoes bill closing CEQA manufacturing exemption</a> <a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2026/09/newsom-veto-police-firefighter-pension-bill/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom cites pension crisis as he vetoes bill to enhance retirement for police and firefighters</a> <a href="https://www.sodoesitmatter.com/p/i-was-wrong-about-gavin-newsom-and" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">I Was Wrong About Gavin Newsom And AB 1383, The Public Safety Employee Union Sponsored Pension Spiking Bill</a> <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/newsletter/2026-09-20/lausd-struggles-to-decide-between-refurbishing-or-closing-schools" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">LAUSD struggles to decide between refurbishing and retrofitting or closing schools</a> <a href="https://nypost.com/2026/07/12/opinion/lausd-ignored-the-warnings-now-the-bills-are-due/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">LAUSD Ignored the Warnings. Now the Bills Are Due.</a> <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/moss-landing-power-plant-fire-september-18-2026-shelter-in-place/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">New fire breaks out at Moss Landing Power Plant in California; shelter-in-place order issued</a> <a href="https://lbpost.com/news/russian-submarine-long-beach-dispose-of-cost" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How do you dispose of an abandoned Russian submarine? Long Beach is on the hook to find out</a>  This week’s advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit Law <a href="http://npolawyers.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">NPOlawyers.com</a> <a href="http://boardtrainingprinciples.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">boardtrainingprinciples.com</a> Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Guest Jon Fleischman helps Will break down the news of the week, including Gavin Newsom’s remarkably weird interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, his AI alarmism, and his surprise legislative vetoes. Yet another major battery fire has climate activists wondering who to blame when “clean” energy goes awry. The city of Long Beach responds to the Soviet submarine in its harbor. And we remember the Siege of Los Angeles, September 22, 1846. Music by Metalachi. Email Us: dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com will@calpolicycenter.org Follow Us: @DavidBahnsen @WillSwaim TheRadioFreeCA Show Notes: Jon Fleischman, So Does It Matter Substack Gavin Newsom tells CNN's Jake Tapper he won't run for president if Kamala Harris runs in 2028 Newsom signs bill barring other states from sending National Guard troops to California Governor Newsom issues executive order to accelerate independent oversight and advance the creation of an AI kill switch Who Pays When AI Causes Harm? The “Kill Switch” Is Liability Newsom vetoes bill to loosen work-from-home rules for state workers Republicans Help SEIU Defy Gavin Newsom’s Return-to-Work Order - WTH? Newsom vetoes bill closing CEQA manufacturing exemption Newsom cites pension crisis as he vetoes bill to enhance retirement for police and firefighters I Was Wrong About Gavin Newsom And AB 1383, The Public Safety Employee Union Sponsored Pension Spiking Bill LAUSD struggles to decide between refurbishing and retrofitting or closing schools LAUSD Ignored the Warnings. Now the Bills Are Due. New fire breaks out at Moss Landing Power Plant in California; shelter-in-place order issued How do you dispose of an abandoned Russian submarine? Long Beach is on the hook to find out This week’s advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit Law NPOlawyers.com boardtrainingprinciples.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Guest Jon Fleischman helps Will break down the news of the week, including Gavin Newsom’s remarkably weird interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, his AI alarmism, and his surprise legislative vetoes. Yet another major battery fire has climate activists wondering who to blame when “clean” energy goes awry. The city of Long Beach responds to the Soviet submarine in its harbor. And we remember the Siege of Los Angeles, September 22, 1846. Music by Metalachi.Email Us: <a href="mailto:dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com</a> <a href="mailto:will@calpolicycenter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer">will@calpolicycenter.org</a>Follow Us: <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidBahnsen" rel="noopener noreferrer">@DavidBahnsen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WillSwaim" rel="noopener noreferrer">@WillSwaim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRadioFreeCA" rel="noopener noreferrer">TheRadioFreeCA</a>Show Notes: <a href="https://www.sodoesitmatter.com/subscribe?utm_source=menu&amp;gift=true&amp;next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sodoesitmatter.com%2F" rel="noopener noreferrer">Jon Fleischman, So Does It Matter Substack</a> <a href="https://transcripts.cnn.com/show/cg/date/2026-09-15/segment/01?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gavin Newsom tells CNN's Jake Tapper he won't run for president if Kamala Harris runs in 2028</a> <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/article/national-guard-california-newsom-22438702.php" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom signs bill barring other states from sending National Guard troops to California</a> <a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/09/18/governor-newsom-issues-executive-order-to-accelerate-independent-oversight-and-advance-the-creation-of-an-ai-kill-switch/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Governor Newsom issues executive order to accelerate independent oversight and advance the creation of an AI kill switch</a> <a href="https://www.sodoesitmatter.com/p/california-is-regulating-ai-backward" rel="noopener noreferrer">Who Pays When AI Causes Harm? The “Kill Switch” Is Liability</a> <a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2026/09/newsom-veto-telework-bill/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom vetoes bill to loosen work-from-home rules for state workers</a> <a href="https://www.sodoesitmatter.com/p/republicans-help-seiu-defy-gavin" rel="noopener noreferrer">Republicans Help SEIU Defy Gavin Newsom’s Return-to-Work Order - WTH?</a> <a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article317300040.html" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom vetoes bill closing CEQA manufacturing exemption</a> <a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2026/09/newsom-veto-police-firefighter-pension-bill/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom cites pension crisis as he vetoes bill to enhance retirement for police and firefighters</a> <a href="https://www.sodoesitmatter.com/p/i-was-wrong-about-gavin-newsom-and" rel="noopener noreferrer">I Was Wrong About Gavin Newsom And AB 1383, The Public Safety Employee Union Sponsored Pension Spiking Bill</a> <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/newsletter/2026-09-20/lausd-struggles-to-decide-between-refurbishing-or-closing-schools" rel="noopener noreferrer">LAUSD struggles to decide between refurbishing and retrofitting or closing schools</a> <a href="https://nypost.com/2026/07/12/opinion/lausd-ignored-the-warnings-now-the-bills-are-due/" rel="noopener noreferrer">LAUSD Ignored the Warnings. Now the Bills Are Due.</a> <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/moss-landing-power-plant-fire-september-18-2026-shelter-in-place/" rel="noopener noreferrer">New fire breaks out at Moss Landing Power Plant in California; shelter-in-place order issued</a> <a href="https://lbpost.com/news/russian-submarine-long-beach-dispose-of-cost" rel="noopener noreferrer">How do you dispose of an abandoned Russian submarine? Long Beach is on the hook to find out</a> &nbsp;This week’s advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit Law <a href="http://npolawyers.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">NPOlawyers.com</a> <a href="http://boardtrainingprinciples.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">boardtrainingprinciples.com</a> Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 466: Newsom's 'Zen Diagram'

California AG Rob Bonta has sued for peace in his fight with Paramount’s David Ellison, making Bari Weiss this week’s biggest winner. David says Republicans are poorly positioned to counter the Democrats’ affection for socialism. Will says California Dems finally have former Union general and abolitionist John C. Fremont right where they want him. Harry and Meghan join the California exodus. Bonus: Cal Policy’s Lance Christensen says Gavin Newsom got it right — four times! Music by Metalachi.Email Us: <a rel="noopener noreferrer">|</a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com</a> <a href="mailto:will@calpolicycenter.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">will@calpolicycenter.org</a>Follow Us: <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidBahnsen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@DavidBahnsen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WillSwaim" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@WillSwaim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRadioFreeCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@TheRadioFreeCA</a>Show Notes:<ul><li><a href="https://www.cnn.com/2026/09/26/sport/dante-moore-late-hit-oregon-usc" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Oregon QB Dante Moore leaves field on cart, in neck brace after late hit from USC's Desman Stephens</a></li><li>David's Capital Record: <a href="https://www.nationalreview.com/podcasts/capital-record/a-choice-not-a-socialist-echo/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">A Choice, Not a Socialist Echo</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article317338073.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gov. Gavin Newsom touts California climate response as Super El Niño approaches</a></li><li><a href="https://variety.com/2026/film/news/rob-bonta-paramount-politics-newsom-nashville-1236872658/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rob Bonta Sued Paramount to Counter Political Influence, Then Fell Victim to It</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/article317199092.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">City of Sacramento announces top pick for renaming Cesar Chavez Plaza</a></li><li><a href="https://www.mercurynews.com/2026/09/24/newsom-administration-proposes-removing-explorer-john-c-fremonts-name-from-state-park-citing-his-violence-against-native-americans/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom administration proposes removing explorer John C. Frémont’s name from state park, citing his violence against Native Americans</a></li><li><a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/prince-harry-and-meghan-markles-con-was-never-going-to-last-forever" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Prince Harry And Meghan Markle’s Con Was Never Going To Last Forever</a></li></ul>Bonus! Lance Christensen: Where Newsom was Right <ul><li><a href="https://californiapolicycenter.org/ab-84-fiscal-letter/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Veto: Gives teachers unions another tool to kill charter schools (AB 84) </a></li><li><a href="https://californiapolicycenter.org/bills/ab-1054-would-expand-costly-drop-style-pension-double-dipping-at-taxpayers-expense/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Veto: Costly pension enhancements (AB 1054)</a></li><li><a href="https://californiapolicycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-1082-FAQs.docx.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Signed: Make inter-district school transfers easier for parents (SB 1082)</a></li><li><a href="https://californiapolicycenter.org/ab-1383-is-a-costly-pension-mistake-in-the-making/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Veto: Costly pension enhancements (AB 1383)</a></li></ul>This week’s advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit Law <a href="http://npolawyers.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">NPOlawyers.com</a> <a href="http://boardtrainingprinciples.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">boardtrainingprinciples.com</a> Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

California AG Rob Bonta has sued for peace in his fight with Paramount’s David Ellison, making Bari Weiss this week’s biggest winner. David says Republicans are poorly positioned to counter the Democrats’ affection for socialism. Will says California Dems finally have former Union general and abolitionist John C. Fremont right where they want him. Harry and Meghan join the California exodus. Bonus: Cal Policy’s Lance Christensen says Gavin Newsom got it right — four times! Music by Metalachi. Email Us: |dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com will@calpolicycenter.org Follow Us: @DavidBahnsen @WillSwaim @TheRadioFreeCA Show Notes:Oregon QB Dante Moore leaves field on cart, in neck brace after late hit from USC's Desman StephensDavid's Capital Record: A Choice, Not a Socialist EchoGov. Gavin Newsom touts California climate response as Super El Niño approachesRob Bonta Sued Paramount to Counter Political Influence, Then Fell Victim to ItCity of Sacramento announces top pick for renaming Cesar Chavez PlazaNewsom administration proposes removing explorer John C. Frémont’s name from state park, citing his violence against Native AmericansPrince Harry And Meghan Markle’s Con Was Never Going To Last ForeverBonus! Lance Christensen: Where Newsom was Right Veto: Gives teachers unions another tool to kill charter schools (AB 84) Veto: Costly pension enhancements (AB 1054)Signed: Make inter-district school transfers easier for parents (SB 1082)Veto: Costly pension enhancements (AB 1383)This week’s advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit Law NPOlawyers.com boardtrainingprinciples.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

California AG Rob Bonta has sued for peace in his fight with Paramount’s David Ellison, making Bari Weiss this week’s biggest winner. David says Republicans are poorly positioned to counter the Democrats’ affection for socialism. Will says California Dems finally have former Union general and abolitionist John C. Fremont right where they want him. Harry and Meghan join the California exodus.&nbsp;Bonus: Cal Policy’s Lance Christensen says Gavin Newsom got it right — four times! Music by Metalachi.Email Us: <a rel="noopener noreferrer">|</a><a rel="noopener noreferrer">dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.com</a> <a href="mailto:will@calpolicycenter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer">will@calpolicycenter.org</a>Follow Us: <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidBahnsen" rel="noopener noreferrer">@DavidBahnsen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WillSwaim" rel="noopener noreferrer">@WillSwaim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRadioFreeCA" rel="noopener noreferrer">@TheRadioFreeCA</a>Show Notes:<ul><li><a href="https://www.cnn.com/2026/09/26/sport/dante-moore-late-hit-oregon-usc" rel="noopener noreferrer">Oregon QB Dante Moore leaves field on cart, in neck brace after late hit from USC's Desman Stephens</a></li><li>David's Capital Record: <a href="https://www.nationalreview.com/podcasts/capital-record/a-choice-not-a-socialist-echo/" rel="noopener noreferrer">A Choice, Not a Socialist Echo</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article317338073.html" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gov. Gavin Newsom touts California climate response as Super El Niño approaches</a></li><li><a href="https://variety.com/2026/film/news/rob-bonta-paramount-politics-newsom-nashville-1236872658/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rob Bonta Sued Paramount to Counter Political Influence, Then Fell Victim to It</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/article317199092.html" rel="noopener noreferrer">City of Sacramento announces top pick for renaming Cesar Chavez Plaza</a></li><li><a href="https://www.mercurynews.com/2026/09/24/newsom-administration-proposes-removing-explorer-john-c-fremonts-name-from-state-park-citing-his-violence-against-native-americans/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Newsom administration proposes removing explorer John C. Frémont’s name from state park, citing his violence against Native Americans</a></li><li><a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/prince-harry-and-meghan-markles-con-was-never-going-to-last-forever" rel="noopener noreferrer">Prince Harry And Meghan Markle’s Con Was Never Going To Last Forever</a></li></ul>Bonus! Lance Christensen: Where Newsom was Right&nbsp;<ul><li><a href="https://californiapolicycenter.org/ab-84-fiscal-letter/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Veto: Gives teachers unions another tool to kill charter schools (AB 84)&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://californiapolicycenter.org/bills/ab-1054-would-expand-costly-drop-style-pension-double-dipping-at-taxpayers-expense/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Veto: Costly pension enhancements (AB 1054)</a></li><li><a href="https://californiapolicycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-1082-FAQs.docx.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer">Signed: Make inter-district school transfers easier for parents (SB 1082)</a></li><li><a href="https://californiapolicycenter.org/ab-1383-is-a-costly-pension-mistake-in-the-making/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Veto: Costly pension enhancements (AB 1383)</a></li></ul>This week’s advertising sponsor: California Center for Nonprofit Law <a href="http://npolawyers.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">NPOlawyers.com</a> <a href="http://boardtrainingprinciples.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">boardtrainingprinciples.com</a> Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 467: Bari Weiss Beats Bonta

How trade unions use “greenmail” to make housing unaffordable. California Dems don’t know whether to oppose Silicon Valley giants or to accept their filthy, filthy money. How the NRA can solve California’s gun-violence problem. A lefty state senator from Berkeley gets it right on college football.

Episode 87: It Was Never about Saving the Planet

A California middle school teacher asks his students about their own unique takes on gender identity, Bill Maher celebrates the death of David Koch, and the state teachers union spends millions trying to murder charter schools.

Episode 86: What Do You Say to the Gender Unicorn?

Who’s really behind California’s housing crisis? Can Bill Maher save the Democratic party from itself? Why does San Francisco hate credit cards? What’s the difference between Kamala Harris and David French on red-flag warnings? Bonus: David and Will play “Fake News or Real.”

Episode 85: What’s the Matter with California?

Operating on impulse power, state lawmakers are building a new mega-agency that will adopt as state law anything Trump doesn’t like.

Episode 84: California’s Hideous Strength

A show about the perilous state of the Golden State—and what that means for you, wherever you live. California is the hothouse lab of the Left, the nation-state creating the statist policies, art, and lifestyles of the future – and generating the political dollars to make them a reality in a community near you. Hosts Will Swaim (California Policy Center) and David Bahnsen (The Bahnsen Group, Fox Business News commentator, conservative activist) beam this weekly show internationally, from mostly undisclosed pirate-radio platforms west of the Sierra Nevada.   [Intro music graciously provided by Los Angeles-based Metalachi, the metal/mariachi soundtrack of the near-future. Find them at Metalachi.com.]

News

Government

Politics

A show about the perilous state of the Golden State—and what that means for you, wherever you live. California is the hothouse lab of the Left, the nation-state creating the statist policies, art, and lifestyles of the future – and generating the political dollars to make them a reality in a community near you. Hosts Will Swaim (California Policy Center) and David Bahnsen (The Bahnsen Group, Fox Business News commentator, conservative activist) beam this weekly show internationally, from mostly undisclosed pirate-radio platforms west of the Sierra Nevada. [Intro music graciously provided by Los Angeles-based Metalachi, the metal/mariachi soundtrack of the near-future. Find them at Metalachi.com.]

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