California Underground

Two new polls on the California governor's race are telling completely different stories. Betty Yee just dropped out and said "conflict sells" on her way out the door. LA County cut homeless outreach in half while spending $843 million. And Gavin Newsom's PAC spent $1.56 million buying two-thirds of his own memoir — then his team called the sales "organic."Story 1 — The Governor's RaceBetty Yee out. Becerra surging from 4% to as high as 23% depending on the poll. Two Republicans still leading in the party's own internal numbers. Debate is tomorrow night. Six weeks to the primary.Story 2 — LA County Homelessness$843M budget. Street outreach cut from $54M to $26M. California has spent $24 billion on homelessness since 2019. The population grew by 30,000. A State Auditor report found $9.4 billion couldn't even be evaluated — no outcomes tracked.Story 3 — Newsom's "Bestseller"FEC filings show his PAC bought 67,000 of 97,400 total print copies. Strip those out:

Hold onto your seats, Californians — this week’s political rollercoaster could change the future of the Golden State forever. From a scandal that toppled a Congressman's career in just four days to the California GOP's confusing endorsement process, Phil and Camille break down the shocking details that every Californian must know. Plus, what does the chaos mean for the upcoming primary and the entire political landscape? Tune in for all the jaw-dropping revelations.In this episode:The rapid downfall of Eric Swalwell in just four days — the full timeline and shocking allegationsThe importance of social media and press conferences in shaping political scandalsWhat the California GOP's decision not to endorse any candidate means for the raceThe impact of Swalwell’s scandals on the 2024 gubernatorial raceHow California’s voting laws and low information voters influence the outcomeThe behind-the-scenes process of party endorsements and delegate voting explainedThe potential for a Republican red wave in

With California's primaries just around the corner, a seismic shift is happening — and many Californians are either clueless or in denial. The recent endorsement of Steve Hilton by Donald Trump has turned the political rumor mill into a full-blown circus, threatening to upend the state's already fragile political landscape. If the Trump endorsement was meant to sway the race, it might just be fueling a chaos that could curse or empower Californians' future.In this episode:The impact of Trump endorsing Steve Hilton and how it could reshape the Republican primary race.Why California's usual politics are being challenged by fresh, outsider candidates like Hilton and Bianco.The possibility of a Democrat boycott or continued stagnation as the party struggles with internal divisions.Predictions on whether California is heading toward a political upheaval or a return to “business as usual.”Critical issues like ballot harvesting, homelessness, and voter trust—none of which are being adequately tackled

California has spent $24 billion on homelessness. It got worse. Gas prices are the highest in the country. And in 2026, nobody knows who's going to be the next Governor. Tonight we sit down with Libertarian candidate Tom Woodard — and ask the questions Sacramento won't.---This week on California Underground, Phil and Camille sit down with Tom Woodard — Libertarian candidate for California Governor 2026. Tom is an entrepreneur, conservationist, and business executive with 40+ years of experience building organizations, creating jobs, and solving complex problems across the U.S. and Mexico. He's also a father who lost a son to addiction and homelessness — and he's running on the belief that California's two-party system has had its chance and blown it.In this episode:

Hollywood’s Golden Era is not just fading — it’s decaying in front of our eyes. Once the shining jewel of California’s economy and culture, the film industry is now a ghost town, abandoned by studios that chase greener pastures elsewhere. Production hubs have shifted out of state, and the iconic Hollywood lots sit eerily silent — relics of a once-thriving empire that now resembles a ghost town. But what caused this collapse? And why is California so aggressively handing its Hollywood crown to other states and countries?In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with veteran screenwriter and producer Jim Agnew — a behind-the-scenes insider who's seen Hollywood's decline firsthand. Jim shares shocking stories about how California’s outdated policies, suffocating union costs, and ridiculous bureaucratic hurdles are bleeding the industry dry. He reveals how neighboring states like Georgia and Kentucky are swooping in with 30% cash rebates, making it cheaper to shoot blockbuster films out of state, even when

In this episode of California Underground, we reveal shocking truths about billions lost in hospice care fraud, rising gas prices driven by political power plays, and California's ongoing budget crisis impacting education and public services. Californians deserve to know how mismanagement, corruption, and politicized decisions are shaping their daily lives.In this episode:Billions of dollars are being siphoned through hospice care fraud, with California leading the nation in billions lost to scam providers.Trump’s recent order to reopen the offshore Sable pipeline amid legal battles and environmental concerns.The real reasons behind California's skyrocketing gas prices, including refinery closures and political blame game.Thousands of teachers and school employees face layoffs due to declining enrollment and misallocated COVID relief funds.The state’s chronic budget mismanagement, inflated claims of job creation, and the push for a complete government overhaul.Resources:Billions in hospice fraud uncov

In this episode of the California Underground podcast, Elaine Culotti shares her unconventional journey and bold vision for California, emphasizing the need to rethink the state's political and economic systems. She advocates for no-party preference candidacy, fiscal responsibility, and grassroots campaigns to bring real change.Key Topics:The rise of no-party preference candidates and what it means for California politicsWhy California’s political establishment is broken and how to fix itReorganization of cities and counties through Chapter 9 bankruptcy to cut costs and improve accountabilityThe influence of billionaires, NGOs, and special interests on California’s governanceCountering unfunded mandates like sanctuary city policies and high-density housing regulationsThe importance of economic development and creating 2 million jobs to revitalize the stateHow to leverage small, clean campaigns with grassroots donations instead of big-money influenceThe concept of building a "Great American Credit Uni

Understanding the Power and Responsibility of California's State Controller with Herb MorganIn this episode, Herb Morgan, a candidate for California state controller, breaks down the often-overlooked yet critically important role of the controller and how it holds more power than many realize. We explore California's financial challenges, transparency innovations, and the potential for reform in government spending and accountability.Key TopicsThe true role and influence of the California State ControllerHow a single office can impact statewide fiscal health and trustThe flaws in current financial reporting and transparencyInnovations like blockchain and AI to revolutionize government accountabilityThe scandals and inefficiencies within NGOs and public sector spendingStrategies for Republican victory in a predominantly blue stateThe "Golden Ticket" coalition and its plan to change California politicsDay-one priorities if Herb Morgan is elected: implementing radical transparency and reforming

Phil and Camille bring you the latest in California politics!In this episode, Phil and Camille discuss Newsom's recent racial gaffe in Atlanta, the California Democrats can't agree on a candidate for Governor, and BART is being bailed out by taxpayers...again. Original air date 2.24.26*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.liveJoin 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 orderFollow California Underground on Social Media  Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergoundTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@califor

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 TakeawaysGavin 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 politicsTime Stamps00:00 - 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 narrati

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 2.10.26Timestamps: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 thou

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

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 1.28.26The 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 stateChapters00:00 - Introduction to California's Prop 50 lawsuit and Gerryma

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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ghost Daycares02:10 Investigation Insights and Findings07:56 The Fraudulent Daycare System14:49 Government Funding and Oversight Issues19:27 The Broader Implications of Daycare Fraud26:57 Radical Indoctrination in Public Schools28:57 Case Studies of Ghost Daycares31:22 Inspec

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

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 12.16.25Are 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 Po

In this episode of California Underground, Phil and Camille discuss the recent $2 million payout to the CEO of LA County, the unfulfilled promises of Governor Gavin Newsom, and the political comeback attempt of Pamela Price, who was recalled as district attorney. They explore themes of entitlement among politicians, the impact of local elections, and the broader implications for California's political landscape.Original air date 12.9.25Chapters00:00 LA County CEO's Controversial Settlement17:28 Gavin Newsom's Unfulfilled Promises29:54 California's Healthcare Challenges35:58 Funding Priorities and Political Promises38:09 Gavin Newsom's Book and Its Implications40:39 The Outsider Narrative and Personal Responsibility42:38 Political Grifts and Book Deals49:45 Pamela Price's Political Comeback Attempt55:33 The State of California Politics and Public Sentiment01:03:27 The Importance of Local Elections and Community Engagement*The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing Cal

On this episode of the California Underground, Phil and Camille discuss the recent tragedy in Stockton where a shooting at a birthday party left 4 dead and 11 wounded. They discuss the problem with crime in Stockton, the history of gang violence, and the laws in California that go soft on gang violence. They also discuss California spending $450 million on a new 911 system, only to scrap it and start over. Finally, President Trump sues California over in state tuition for undocumented students. 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  12.2.25*The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.*Check out our full site for more inf

On this episode of the California Underground, we discuss new revelations that AG Bonta may have been blackmailed with a video of him in a "compromising position." Eric Swalwell wants all Californians to be able to vote by phone. Cloobeck is out, Steyer in. Karen Bass thinks people who ask questions about the LA wildfires are dangerous and spreading "misinformation."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  11.25.25*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 the Members Only California Underground Telegram

On this episode of the California Underground, we discuss what appears to be the real possibility of Eric Swalwell entering the race for California Governor. We also discuss a federal case involving parental notifications and transgenderism in California schools and how California was found to be hiding evidence. The DOJ has entered the fight against Prop 50, and Rob Bonta used campaign funds for legal fees in Oakland corruption case.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  11.18.25*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