California Underground: Your Sane Insight into California Politics

California Underground

Welcome to California Underground, the most trusted podcast for all things California politics. Each week, we tackle the pressing issues facing our state through engaging interviews and roundtable discussions with political candidates and passionate Californians. Join us for clear, rational commentary that helps you stay informed about the complexities of California governance. Tune in for your trusted perspective on the political landscape!

  1. Why is Newsom in Munich?

    6D AGO

    Why is Newsom in Munich?

    Gavin Newsom is galavanting in Munich and pretending to be President, Nancy Pelosi has made her selection for 2028 Democratic Presidential nominee, and we ask why is California ok with shipping gasoline all the way from the Bahamas when we could produce it here. Key Takeaways Gavin Newsom’s trip to Munich and his shadow campaign tacticsCalifornia’s hypocrisy in energy and environmental policiesThe potential 2028 Democratic presidential candidatesPelosi’s backing of Gavin Newsom for presidentCalifornia’s oil and gasoline imports from the BahamasThe economic and environmental implications of importing fuelHypocrisy around California’s offshore drilling bans versus importsPolitical narratives and vulnerabilities for California leadersThe influence of historical and familial ties in California politics Time Stamps 00:00 - Gavin Newsom’s Munich trip and international diplomacy00:43 - What Newsom says about Trump’s temporary status02:13 - California’s political direction and Newsom’s shadow campaign04:33 - The narrative of Newsom’s presidential ambitions05:25 - California’s energy policies and importing oil from the Bahamas06:30 - The hypocrisy of environmental regulations and offshore drilling07:46 - The timeline of EPA regulations and climate policies09:29 - Leadership responsibilities and Newsom’s absence11:10 - Newsom’s memorandum with the UK and international stances13:35 - Democratic contenders for 2028: AOC, Kamala, and others15:17 - AOC’s comments on Taiwan and foreign policy17:39 - The history of California’s oil wealth and current energy crisis18:35 - Pelosi’s endorsement of Newsom for 202824:05 - Family ties between Pelosi and Newsom26:38 - Left-wing media’s critique of Newsom28:59 - California’s economic record and challenges37:50 - California’s import of gasoline from the Bahamas40:13 - The state’s oil reserves and import strategies43:24 - Environmental hypocrisy and the costs of global oil imports47:55 - CO2 emissions from oil tankers and environmental impact50:13 - Comparing emissions from cows and ships52:52 - Final thoughts and community comments William Newsom Jr. - Family of Gavin NewsomNancy Pelosi - LinkedInGavin Newsom - Official WebsiteEPA Endangerment Rule TimelineJones Act - Maritime LawBloomberg on California Gas ImportsCalifornia Oil Reserves - EIA Connect with the Hosts Phil (@CaliforniaUnderground) - TwitterCamille (@Camille.Bethany) - Twitter

    56 min
  2. Candidates for Governor Debate...Sort Of

    FEB 11

    Candidates for Governor Debate...Sort Of

    In this episode, we break down last week's California gubernatorial debate, highlighting the lack of substantive discussion, notable gaffes, and the absence of real solutions from the candidates. If you're tired of political grandstanding and empty promises, this summary is for you. Original air date 2.10.26 Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and debate overview01:17 - Initial thoughts: debate’s tone and candidates’ performances03:53 - The debate’s lack of depth and candidate grandstanding10:32 - Steve Hilton’s surprising poll victory and candidate differentiation15:48 - Key moments: attacks on Bianco, immigration, and policy gaffes22:52 - The recurring theme of empty promises and unrealistic solutions38:08 - Misconceptions about abolishing ICE and federal versus state powers44:04 - Critical analysis of proposed solutions for housing and economic growth50:22 - The role of California’s budget and mismanagement criticisms60:26 - Candidates’ unrealized solutions and opportunistic positioning65:56 - Final thoughts: debate’s lack of substance and future expectations 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. *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 the Members Only California Underground Telegram —>  https://im.page/7c0306da  For more in depth California political news coverage, make sure to subscribe to our Substack at https://caunderground.substack.com  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/

    1h 11m
  3. California vs. ICE

    FEB 4

    California vs. ICE

    On this episode of the California Underground, we discuss California's recent "creative" attempts to combat ICE including cookies, bans from future employment, and punishing corporations who do business with ICE. Also, we discuss San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan jumping into the race. Does he see an opening with so many lackluster Democrats? All that and more on this episode of the California Underground. 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 2.3.26*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.liveFor more in depth California political news coverage, make sure to subscribe to our Substack at https://caunderground.substack.com 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/

    1h 8m
  4. Prop 50 Lawsuit Update withh Special Guest Assemblyman David Tapinga

    JAN 29

    Prop 50 Lawsuit Update withh Special Guest Assemblyman David Tapinga

    Join us as we speak with Assemblyman David Tangipa about the ongoing legal battles over Prop 50, California's gerrymandering issues, and the pervasive fraud, waste, and abuse in Sacramento. Discover the stakes, key legal arguments, and what citizens can do to get involved in reform efforts to restore integrity and representation in California. Original air date 1.28.26 The details of the Prop 50 lawsuit and its implications for racial gerrymanderingHow California's redistricting laws have been misused and challengedThe legal arguments around voter intent versus racial and political considerationsThe status of legal challenges against Prop 50, including SCOTUS considerationsThe impact of mismanagement, fraud, and waste on California's budget and infrastructureHow California's supermajority affects legislation and what needs to changePractical steps for citizens to get involved and support conservative reforms in the state Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to California's Prop 50 lawsuit and Gerrymandering01:10 - Assemblyman David Tangipa's background and why he fights for California04:30 - Explanation of Prop 50 and the issues with racial gerrymandering in California07:34 - The significance of Paul Mitchell's statements and the legal case against racial map drawing10:29 - Overview of previous lawsuits and their outcomes, and where Prop 50 stands now12:25 - Court rulings, voter intent, and legal arguments challenging Prop 5015:09 - The danger of deception and marketing in voter decisions, with references to abortion laws16:07 - How California's voting laws could be manipulated and the implications for democracy20:51 - Assemblyman Tangipa on the broader implications of Prop 50 on California's representation23:33 - Addressing fraud, waste, and abuse in California's budget and infrastructure projects27:01 - The staggering costs and mismanagement of the California High-Speed Rail project30:29 - The importance of grassroots involvement, breaking supermajorities, and fighting for a better California32:21 - The ongoing legal battles, including the Louisiana lawsuit challenging Section 2 of the Voter Rights Act35:15 - The potential future outcomes of Prop 50 legal challenges and how citizens can support reforms39:11 - How to follow Assemblyman Tangipa on social media and support his work Links Assemblyman David Tangipa's Legislative PageProp 50 Legal Challenge SCOTUS Support DocumentCalifornia High-Speed Rail ProjectVoter Rights Act Section 2 - Legal OverviewTwitterCampaign Website

    41 min
  5. Empty Daycares in California?

    JAN 14

    Empty Daycares in California?

    In this episode, Phil and Camille are joined by Amy Reichert to discuss her recent investigation into empty daycares in San Diego. They delve into the alarming issue of ghost daycares in California, revealing findings from her investigation into state-funded childcare facilities that appear to be fraudulent. They discuss the role of state inspectors, the lack of accountability, and the implications of government funding in the daycare system. The conversation also touches on the broader context of the homeless industrial complex and the importance of citizen journalism in uncovering these issues. Amy emphasizes the need for transparency and encourages listeners to conduct their own research on local daycares. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ghost Daycares 02:10 Investigation Insights and Findings 07:56 The Fraudulent Daycare System 14:49 Government Funding and Oversight Issues 19:27 The Broader Implications of Daycare Fraud 26:57 Radical Indoctrination in Public Schools 28:57 Case Studies of Ghost Daycares 31:22 Inspection Reports and Child Care Violations 32:59 Media Manipulation and Public Perception 38:57 Censorship and the Role of Independent Journalism 42:58 Investigative Stories and Community Engagement 49:00 The Importance of Research in Elections 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  1.13.26 *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 the Members Only California Underground Telegram —>  https://im.page/7c0306da  For more in depth California political news coverage, make sure to subscribe to our Substack at https://caunderground.substack.com  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/

    57 min
  6. New Laws Starting in California in 2026

    JAN 7

    New Laws Starting in California in 2026

    In this episode of the California Underground, Phil and Camille delve into the some of the 800 new laws that went into effect this month in California. They focus on significant topics such as the inclusion of folic acid in tortillas, the expansion of mental health services, and upcoming election propositions. The hosts also share personal anecdotes, discuss the broader implications of these laws for California's future, and touch on issues like government overreach and homelessness. 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  1.6.25 *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 Join the Members Only California Underground Telegram —>  https://im.page/7c0306da  For more in depth California political news coverage, make sure to subscribe to our Substack at https://caunderground.substack.com  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/

    1h 21m
  7. Gavin vs. Kamala in 2028?

    12/17/2025

    Gavin vs. Kamala in 2028?

    In this episode of the California Underground, Phil and Camille discuss the thwarted New Year's Eve terrorist attack by the Turtle Island Liberation Front, a radical group with anti-government and anti-capitalist views. They explore the group's motivations, the FBI's involvement, and the broader implications of domestic terrorism. The conversation also touches on California's political landscape, including potential 2028 presidential candidates Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris, and the state's unique cultural traits. The hosts end on a lighter note, discussing California stereotypes and lifestyle habits. Original air date 12.16.25 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. *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 the Members Only California Underground Telegram —>  https://im.page/7c0306da  For more in depth California political news coverage, make sure to subscribe to our Substack at https://caunderground.substack.com  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/

    1h 17m
4.1
out of 5
57 Ratings

About

Welcome to California Underground, the most trusted podcast for all things California politics. Each week, we tackle the pressing issues facing our state through engaging interviews and roundtable discussions with political candidates and passionate Californians. Join us for clear, rational commentary that helps you stay informed about the complexities of California governance. Tune in for your trusted perspective on the political landscape!

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