Hector And Mike Experience - Common Sense In An Uncommon World
By Hector and Mike Experience
Hector And Mike Experience - Common Sense In An Uncommon WorldFeb 13, 2022
Huntington Beach Ignites Voter ID Debate
"Dive into the heart of controversy with our latest podcast episode: 'Identity at the Polls: The Voter ID Debate Ignites in Huntington Beach.' With the 2024 primary election around the corner, the residents of Huntington Beach stand at the crossroads of a pivotal decision: the potential implementation of Measure A, a groundbreaking charter amendment mandating voter identification at the polls.
This proposal has sparked a firestorm of opposition from high-profile figures such as California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley Weber, alongside legislative maneuvers by State Senator Dave Min to forestall such measures through Senate Bill 1174. But what lies beneath the surface of this heated debate?
Our episode peels back the layers of this complex issue, challenging the narratives that have dominated headlines. Is the call for voter ID an act of suppression or a step towards securing the sanctity of our elections? Does it disproportionately impact communities of color, or are these concerns masking a deeper issue within our society? And ultimately, who stands to gain or lose without voter ID laws?
Shake It Off with Taylor Swift, Elections, NYPD Attack, and Super Bowl Fever
In the latest episode of "The Hector and Mike Experience," dive into the universe of Taylor Swift, the intricate dance of politics, and the gritty streets of New York. Taylor Swift, the queen of shaking off the haters, finds herself at the heart of our sports and political discourse. Hector and Mike weigh in on the Swift effect: Can her star power really swing an election by a staggering 10-15%? Their advice? Next, they dive into the recent surge in job numbers, juxtaposing it against the plummeting approval ratings of Joe Biden. What's causing this political seesaw? Hector and Mike peel back the layers of complexity, including the incident involving NYPD officers and a clash with illegal immigrants. Finally, Hector and Mike toss in their Super Bowl predictions. With stakes higher than just sportsmanship, one host is playing not just for bragging rights but to avoid a night on the couch. Tune in, lean back, and prepare for an intersection of pop culture, politics, and sports. Website: https://hectorandmikeexperience.com FB: www.facebook.com/HectorMikeExperience
Biden Panic Mode, As Harris Has Higher Approval Numbers
Hector and Mike discuss the Washington Post story that President Joe Biden is frustrated by his horrible poll numbers (38 percent approving of his job performance, 58 percent disapproving) and demanding answers and a plan. https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/12/18/joe-biden-polls-campaign/
Mike discusses how, for months, the president and first lady Jill Biden have told aides and friends they are frustrated by the president’s low approval rating and the polls that show him trailing former president Donald Trump.
More from the Washington Post Story: We’ve further seen remarks by the Obama-whisperer, David Axelrod, to the effect that President Biden should consider bowing out of his reelection bid — and then more recently adding that the president’s record-low approval rating is “very, very dark” news for his campaign.
And just this weekend, we found an unidentified source “familiar with [former President Barack Obama’s] thinking” telling the Wall Street Journal that Obama knows the presidential race is going to be “close,” “feels the Democrats very well could lose,” and worries that “the alternative” — Donald Trump — “is pretty dangerous for democracy.”
NBC News: All come from Democratic strategists whose low-boil frustrations with Biden’s candidacy erupted over the weekend amid bleak polling numbers. No less a party mastermind than David Axelrod, architect of Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign, suggested in a social media post that Biden consider dropping out of the race and letting someone more electable take his place as the Democratic presidential nominee.
How bad are things? Harris has a higher approval rating than Biden: The Monmouth University survey showed the 81-year-old Biden receiving just a 34% approval rating — the lowest in the poll’s tracking of his administration and down 20 percentage points from its peak in April 2021 — and a 61% disapproval rating.
Harris fares a little better, but her 35% approval rating and 57% disapproval rating are positively glowing marks compared to her boss.
https://nypost.com/2023/12/18/news/harris-tops-biden-favorability-as-dems-panic-over-polls/
Ohtani Saves $100 Million in California Taxes
Hector and Mike talk about the latest report from the California Center for Jobs, where they looked at Shohei Ohtani's decision to defer most of his annual salary of $70 million over 10 years and the tax implications.
"Shohei Ohtani's new contract with the Dodgers is worth $70 million a year for 10 years, but he will get only $2 million a year while deferring the remaining $68 million to the following decade. In the interim, Ohtani will have to make do with his additional endorsement income of at least $40 million a year, assuming some of that is not deferred as well.
"Who gets to tax the deferred income will depend on Ohtani's official residence when the payments are actually made. If paid up front, the full $70 million would be subject to California's highest-in-the-nation 13.3% income tax rate plus an additional 1.1% based on the stealth-expansion of the California State Disability Insurance tax rate. … Deferring the income potentially saves Ohtani an additional $9.8 million annually in taxes, or $98 million over the life of his contract." https://centerforjobs.org/ca/special-reports/special-report-california-strikes-out-on-ohtanis-blockbuster-dodger-deal
But on a smaller but equally impactful scale, how many others are retiring to other states to avoid paying California's income tax?
With a $68 billion deficit, the California exodus is real, and with it are higher-income earners who can afford to pack up and go.
https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/california-exodus-states-move-18438760.php Will the legislature and Governor get the message, or will they find new ways to tax and increase fees on those left behind? On January 10, 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom will release his latest budget, which should give us a glimpse of how he plans to deal with the $68 billion deficit.
California Spends $20 Billion To Make The Homeless Problem Worse
In this episode, Hector and Mike discuss the Department of Housing and Urban Development report that California’s homeless population grew by 5.8 percent to $181,399 in 2023, with nearly 70 percent of them sleeping outside. All this is happening while California spent $20 billion over the past few years on homelessness programs. California Homeless Population Up 6% in 2023 https://freebeacon.com/california/california-homeless-population-up-6-in-2023/
Where did all this money go? Which programs are working and which are not?
Petroleum-Using Kids Sue Over Climate Change
If things couldn’t get more backward in California, here is another thing for that list.
Hector and Mike discuss that 18 California kids (under 18 years of age) are suing the Environmental Protection Agency, claiming that their “constitutional rights” were not protected because of the impact of climate change on their lives. https://www.npr.org/2023/12/11/1218499186/18-california-children-are-suing-the-epa-over-climate-change
A 17-year-old Long Beach resident called Genesis B (minor) says that with the increasingly extreme heat days, Genesis is unable to stay cool in her home during the day - "On many days, Genesis must wait until the evening to do schoolwork when temperatures cool down enough for her to be able to focus” It should be noted that Genesis’ parent can’t afford air conditioning.
What about going to the library or staying in school to finish the work? Does Genesis of these other 17 kids have a cell phone, sneakers, walk on roads, or use a mop or umbrella, play sports, or wear clothes? If they say yes, they are using petroleum-based products. Get rid of these petroleum-based items before filing a lawsuit.
Or is this another ploy to have the government agency settle out of court to help fund the environmental groups behind this lawsuit?
What about the pollution from importing oil from foreign countries? Should we sue those countries?
What is Hell Is Happening to California Insurance?
Hector and Mike examine why 7 of California’s top 12 insurers have paused or restricted new business since 2022, and consumer options seem to shrink daily.
Farmers Direct Property and Casualty Insurance Co. recently announced plans to end coverage in California and shift most policyholders to its parent company, Farmers, which already has limited coverage in California.
In May, State Farm announced a freeze on new policies: https://calmatters.org/housing/2023/05/state-farm-california-insurance/
For years, insurance companies complained to the California Insurance Commissioner, Richard Lara (https://www.insurance.ca.gov/0500-about-us/01-commissioner/), legislators, and the Governor that current rates and the existing regulations don’t allow them to offset the cost of doing business in the state’s most at-risk regions. Insurance companies point to three main areas:
Wildfire risk, the cost of global reinsurance (the cost of insurance policies that insurance companies take out on themselves), and the increasing cost of construction in California.
So where is everyone going for insurance: The California FAIR Plan.
As of October, the FAIR Plan had an exposure of $290 billion, a nearly sixfold increase from the $50 billion of exposure it had in 2018.
Trump Off The Ballot in Colorado, Helps Increase His Poll Numbers
With no trial, jury, or presentation of offense or defensive stance on whether President Donald Trump's speech and words led to a level of insurrection under the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, the Colorado Supreme Court removed Trump from the ballot.
Discussing the implications of this decision, Hector and Mike point out an unexpected twist. What would typically spell the end for most campaigns has become a boon for Trump. Republicans who previously withheld their endorsement are now rallying behind him in opposition to the CO Supreme Court's decision. Even Trump's fiercest critic, California Governor Gavin Newsom (a staunch Democrat), has criticized the CO Supreme Court's overreach. In an ironic turn of events, Trump's opponents now defend him.
This decision by the CO Supreme Court is making the case that Democrats in power are persecuting Trump, as the Democratic preferred candidate's poll numbers are cratering. This seems like election interference is what the Trump team is saying and it is working to solidify the base.
There's a looming threat that could spell trouble for the Biden team. If the U.S. Supreme Court decides to step in and overturn the CO Supreme Court's decision, the political landscape could shift dramatically.
Trump the Martyr.
Is The Fate of Our Democracy in Jeopardy?
Every election cycle we hear “This is the most important election of our generation,” “this election will change the trajectory for the next 100 years,” “If you elect X, this could spell the end of our democracy,” If you elect Y, we are all saved.
And somehow for over 200 plus years our Republic has survived – resignations; assassinations; scandals; debilitating illness; and most of all, abject incompetence. 2024 is no different.
2024 is the most important election of your lifetime because it is the next election of your lifetime. And because men and women have died on battlefields across the world to give you that right to choose who represents you.
Don’t vote because you’re scared. Vote because you are happy or pissed off with interest rates that are almost seven times what they were three years ago, gas prices three times what they were three years ago, home affordability the lowest its been in a long time, and basics like food and clothing higher than it has been.
Democracy will survive whether you vote or not. But if you don’t vote, don’t complain.
Another Gov’t Committee, More Talk While Businesses Get Robbed
Talk is cheap, especially when people are stealing from you. But that’s the best Sacramento can do when it comes to retail theft in California.
Another committee meeting and more discussion in the halls of the Capitol, while the businesses outside the secure halls of the Capitol are getting destroyed by retail theft.
You don’t need talk, you need action. And the action is simple.
When someone steals something, arrest them, prosecute them, throw them in jail even if it’s for a week or a month or a year. Actions have consequences, that’s where you start fixing this problem.
Law enforcement has repeatedly pointed to Proposition 47 as a reason for this increase in property crime. This law says that if you steal less than $950 it’s a misdemeanor. This includes stealing a firearm, as long as it’s with less than $950. Absurd. This should be a felony and there should be jail time.
It is not just Proposition 47, in certain areas in our state we have Zero Bail. That leads to stories like, “Glendora police arrested and released a man three times in one day, blaming California's new zero-bail policy for their inability to keep the suspect behind bars.” https://abc7.com/california-zero-bail-prison-overcrowding-glendora-police-ca/6144190/
Catch and release is fine for fishing, but it does nothing to protect our businesses, our shoppers and our communities. Catch and prosecute and jail – now that’s a real solution.
Legalize 16 Million Before Securing The Border?
In this podcast, Hector discusses with Mike a recent interview he had with a reporter about immigration and the idea that there are 16 million people who are living in the United States without documents (undocumented immigrants).
The reporter said we must secure the border before moving forward with any plans. Hector informed the reporter that in the past three years, more than 8.3 million migrants crossed through the border, with 240,000 crossing in October 2023 alone. There is no room for legalization with a broken border.
In the podcast, Mike and Hector discussed the various economic, crime, and national security problems faced throughout the United States with this open border, including the fact that we are letting terrorists into our country, our cities and our neighborhoods. In addition, now that sanctuary states like Illinois and New York and California are seeing the real cost to their local citizens, they are turning on the federal government by cutting programs and blaming the Biden Administration. Can Democrats and Joe Biden come up with an answer that anyone will believe, after the debacle of the last three years?
How Much Will The Climate Conference Cost US? "Stay In Poverty"
COP28 (The Conference of the Parties, 28th meeting) was just held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where more than 200 nations gathered to discuss climate change rules and impose goals for meeting them.
The amount of hot air from the private jet-setting, limousine riding millionaires and politicians could melt the Polar Ice cap, while costing all of us regular people more money out of pockets. me.
The impact of their impractical policies will not just impact the United States, but will have devastating impact around the globe:
The Guardian reported that "Sultan Al Jaber stated there is no science indicating that a phase-out of fossil fuels is needed to restrict global heating to 1.5C, the Guardian and the Centre for Climate Reporting can reveal.
Al Jaber also said a phase-out of fossil fuels would not allow sustainable development 'unless you want to take the world back into caves.'"
To complicate the matters, France 24 reported that" some representatives of African nations have said they could support a phase out deal if wealthy countries, who have long produced and used fossil fuels, agree to quit first. 'To tell Uganda to stop fossil fuels, it is really, really an insult. It's like you are telling Uganda to stay in poverty,' Uganda's energy minister Ruth Nankabirwa said."
Many African countries and others around the world are worried about being left behind economically because they have low electricity access rates and are planning to develop and expand their oil and gas production.
Uganda's energy minister Ruth Nankabirwa told Reuters,
"First in, first out - and we will be happy to be the last one to exit from fossil fuels."
And finally from the Hector and Mike Experience,”How do you stop climate change if the two largest polluters on the planet – Russia and China - are not part of the deal?”
Children for Terrorists
As of this recording, more hostages in the Middle East are being released on both sides. Hamas is releasing 50 civilian hostages, many of them children and the elderly, in exchange for 150 known jailed terrorists. What we saw from a Sky News reporter this past week was absurdity at its worst.
"I was talking to a hostage negotiator this morning," asks host Kay Burley. "He made the comparison between the 50 hostages that Hamas has promised to release, as opposed to the 150 prisoners that are Palestinians that Israel has released. And he made the comparison between the numbers and the fact that 'Does Israel not think that Palestinian lives are not valued as highly as Israeli lives?'"
Government spokesperson Eylon Levy raises his eyebrows in shock.
It doesn't take a diplomat, a college Professor, or a President to understand common sense. If you are giving away three for every one you get, if those three you are giving up are known terrorists who want to kill your people and destroy your country, and if the people you get in exchange are innocent women and children who survived slaughter, rape, and abuse by your opponent to become hostages, then there is nothing even about this exchange.
It is disheartening to hear and see so many in the United States and around the world justifying what happened on October 7.
Should The Rock Run For President?
Politics is a brutal game. Von Drehle, the Deputy opinion editor and columnist for the Washington Post, recently wrote an opinion piece entitled, “Who can beat The Donald? The Rock.” Drehle writes, “For four years, I have been saying to anyone who will listen — not many people, I must admit — that America has a sure and happy pathway out of the doom loop of Biden vs. Trump, Trump vs. Biden, seemingly for the rest of eternity.
This political hellscape worthy of Sartre’s “No Exit,” this zombie apocalypse, this death of imagination and hope. Johnson is that pathway. A man bigger than the Super Bowl is exactly what we need to break the cycle of despair. Johnson for President!”The business world and Hollywood aren’t the political world. In the world of politics, there are teams of opposition research firms working year-round to collect data on candidates.
They interview friends, colleagues, and acquaintances, trying to dig up dirt. They comb through personal data, financial reports, media interviews, and your social media, compiling pages of information and potential hits. There is also a mountain of issues that you will have to learn and establish a position for - knowing that no matter what you say, there will be groups who are opposed. There are no shortcuts.
The media will love the circus but tear you down - they will test your knowledge and scrutinize your every move. Arnold transitioned from Hollywood to politician, but he left the governor’s office far less popular than when he had entered. He needed to reinvent himself.
Ronald Reagan made the transition, but he was Governor of California first. Having worked in politics for over 60 years (combined years), at least for this election cycle, don’t give up your day job.
Newsom vs. DeSantis - The Last Stand
Could this debate between California Governor Gavin Newsom and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis be DeSantis’ last stand?
Newsom takes his “not running for president” campaign back on Fox News, with a “nothing to lose” approach to a national audience focusing on every word and gesture he makes.
For DeSantis, the stakes couldn’t be higher. In this “do or die,” Ron needs a win.
Newsom is skilled, smooth and memorizes numbers, events, and facts. He convinces viewers that his talk is based on science, facts, and reality. Newsom’s opponents haven’t been able to push back hard. They get stuck debating the numbers, of which Newsom throws more in the discussion. The result is like punching a pillow – a furious effort by his opponent that has gained nothing. DeSantis can’t afford that.
When Newsom talks about the homelessness programs he has supported, the amount of beds, meals, and people it has helped, DeSantis better have a response. It requires an answer of facts. It requires DeSantis to ask so where is the accountability on all those programs?
Why are you allowing for the construction of a 220-square-foot unit for $720,000 in Los Angeles? Ask about how the money is being spent, who it goes to, and whether they must report back to the city, county, and state. How do you know what is working and what is not? $20 billion in homelessness programs over the past few years, and the situation has only worsened, isn’t a recipe for the nation but one that requires a forensic analysis.
And finally, Ron has to have a defining moment, something along the lines of why does it take a Communist leader for you to do what the people elected you to do – make their streets and neighborhoods safe and clean and crime-free?
Showtime.
The Best MF California Republican Convention
In the wake of the 2nd Republican Presidential Debate held at the Ronald Reagan Library, the California Republican Party met for it’s annual convention in Anaheim, in the shadow of Disney.
Although Donald Trump didn’t participate in the debate, he did speak at the state GOP Convention, and shook the walls of the hotel and the Magic Kingdom itself. In an hour-long speech at lunch Trump lay waste to all those who have come after him, both in the political arena and in the courts. And he pulled no punches in the language he used.
Did Trump cement his hold on the state GOP with his raucous speech? What about the other contenders who spoke, did they make a dent in Trump’s 50 point lead? One thing is certain, the California GOP had a convention like no other.
The Benefits of Life Insurance and Financial Security
Hector interviews Jim Kinis, a prominent person in the life insurance industry and financial advisor, who gives insight into the importance of financial security in today's world.
Post Debate Analysis: Who Fell For the Question Trap and Surprises
Hector and Mike provide their 2023 Republican Presidential post-debate analysis. They were both at the debate at the Reagan Library and have plenty to say. Who fell for the question trap from the hosts? Winner and Losers? Surprises? Who Stood Out?
What Have Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris Been Up To Lately???
Hector and Mike take a look at Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris' actions recently as things heat up for the Democratic Party as the presidential election nears.
A Critical Look at the Most Recent Presidential Debate & California in Todays America
Hector and Mike discuss the most recent Presidential Debate and how things are looking for the republican party as the election nears while taking a look at the upcoming debate to be held in California, analyzing what political significance the state has in the U.S. today and how crime in California has been skyrocketing and going unchecked as a result of recent ballot measures and low morale within communities
Navigating the Waves of Communication: A Deep Dive with Mike Marando
Welcome to another insightful episode of the Hector and Mike Experience. In today's segment, we're privileged to host Mike Marando, a seasoned media spokesperson and a linchpin in the communications sphere for over three decades. Having served as a marketing and public affairs specialist for not one but five California state departments and agencies, Mike brings a treasure trove of knowledge, experience, and wisdom to our conversation.
Join us as we embark on a journey tracing Mike's path, delving deep into the world of communications. Mike sheds light on everything from the excitement of pursuing a career in this dynamic field to the nitty-gritty of confronting and navigating through challenges.
Every profession has its speed bumps, but how do we face them, learn from them, and drive forward more vigorously? Mike shares the trials and tribulations, as well as the triumphs, of his storied career.
Take a moment, plug in your headphones, and dive into this enlightening conversation with Mike Marrando. You won't be disappointed. Remember to subscribe to Hector and Mike Experience podcast for more enlightening interviews and stories from leaders in their respective fields.
Building Resilience and Focus: An Interview with Softball Pitching Coach Joe Jaquez
In this interview, we sit down with Joe Jaquez, a highly regarded softball pitching coach in the Sacramento region.
Joe has spent many years as a pitcher, traveling around the country to play in men's softball leagues. For the past two decades, Joe has been coaching travel ball and is currently a high school coach at Sheldon High School, where his team has an impressive win-loss record of 82-8 in the Delta League over the past seven seasons, with five section titles to their name.
What sets Joe apart from other coaches is his focus on the mental aspect of the game. He believes that softball players need to develop the mindset to stand on the mound even when the game seems to be falling apart around them.
In this interview, Joe shares his insights on what high school and college coaches seek in a softball player and how players can develop resilience and focus through adversity.
Joe Jaquez - Softball Pitcher and Coach
https://www.gap2gapsoftball.net/joe-jaquez
You can watch the interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Kt7NcOdWZAE
Hector Barajas
www.Amplify360Inc.com
Twitter: @HectorMBarajas
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/hectormbarajas
Food for Thought: Jami Goldstene's Inspiring Odyssey in Communications + Cuisine
In this interview, Jami Warner Goldstene takes us on a journey that began in Los Angeles, where she grew up in a family steeped in culture and politics. Her professional path winds its way to high places, as she worked with elected officials and ascended to the top of her field as General Manager & Executive Vice President for the Sacramento office of Edelman, the world’s largest independent PR firm. But her story includes other chapters. In addition to running her communications firm, Jami shares how she finally attained her lifelong dream of getting into the restaurant business. She opened Solomon’s, Sacramento’s first authentic Jewish deli, inspired by her Los Angeles upbringing and love of music. Jami’s story is about more than just professional accomplishments; she offers insights into the qualities that contribute to success and what has constituted a rewarding and meaningful life for her. *** Solomon's - No Bagels, No Life 730 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814 https://www.solomons.co
The Power of Perseverance: A Mortgage Advisor's Journey of Hard Work and Success
In this episode, Oscar Mora shares his story, which is one of perseverance and hard work and a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome challenges and succeed. Growing up as an immigrant child in a farming community, Oscar learned the value of hard work at an early age.
His parents instilled in him a strong work ethic that would serve him well throughout his life.
Despite the language barrier, he excelled in his studies, and after graduating from high school, he was accepted into college.
After college, Oscar pursued a career in the mortgage industry, and he quickly made a name for himself as a dedicated and hard-working professional.
He takes the time to build relationships with his clients, ensuring they feel supported and informed throughout the mortgage process. His commitment to his clients has earned him a reputation as a trustworthy and reliable mortgage advisor.
Oscar offers his advice on 27 years in the mortgage industry and how to work through the market's ups and downs.
Contact for Oscar Mora
@TheMoraTeam - Instagram
Oscar Mora - Linkedin and Facebook
Recommended Books
The Four Agreements: https://www.miguelruiz.com/the-four-agreements
Mindset: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/44330/mindset-by-carol-s-dweck-phd/
Are Police Dogs Racist? And Undercover Police Officers' Photos Accidentally Released
What a major screwup.
In response to a public records request, Los Angeles Police Department released every officer's name, rank, serial number, and photograph, including officers, working undercover operations involving gangs, cartels, and narcotics. LAPD Chief Moore apologized to the officers and admitted that the department mistakenly provided the photos of the officers.
And Assemblymembers Corey Jackson (D-Perris) and Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) introduced Assembly Bill 742, which would ban"the use of police dogs for arrests, apprehensions, and crowd control," citing racial bias and trauma.
Gavin Makes Headlines, the Narcos Crossfire, and the SVB Collapse
Mike and I discuss several critical issues, including the renter's assistance program, the Walgreens ban, the economic impact of Silicon Valley Bank, and how Mexico is caught in a narco battle.
Newsom Builds Momentum For 2024: From banning gas-powered vehicles to "punish" oil companies plus the withdrawal of Walgreens from renewed state contracts, California Governor Gavin Newsom is capitalizing on these short-sighted grandstanding policies to build momentum for a potential 2024 presidential run, if incumbent Joe Biden doesn't make a run himself.
Newsom's latest political stunt is directly hurting two communities that rely on Walgreens the most – seniors and those who need close proximity and reliable access to their medications. Yet, as Newsom claims to take the moral high ground with Walgreens, he continues to allow California to do business with countries that are anti-LGBTQ+ or countries that have negative environmental track records, like those that continue to decimate the rain forest.
Silicon Valley Bank Run: What does the Silicon Valley Bank fiasco mean to our economy, the constant increase in the interest rate, and the overall impact on inflation? A few years ago, $100 filled up the shopping cart, and now that same $100 would barely cover the bottom of the basket. Will this be a repeat of the 2008 collapse?
Renter's Assistance Programs: With the end of the renter's protection programs, what happens to all those who owe rent? How will that impact homelessness?
Mexico's Cartel Problem Continues: Mexican cartel issues an apology for kidnapping Americans and killing two Americans. The cartel problem in Mexico is difficult for both the people and the government.
With the cartel so entrenched in Mexico, is it a lost cause for the government? Should Mexico bring in the military and take over the policing operations state by state or leave it alone and hope it doesn’t escalate?
California Governor Itching For A Fight With Florida Governor
Hector and Mike examine whether California Governor Gavin Newsom will challenge Kamala Harris if Biden decides not to run and the continued verbal fighting with Florida Governor DeSantis.
Governor Newsom shouldn’t defer to anyone. He is the Governor of one of the largest states, progressive, and able to raise a ton of money - he shouldn’t blink to anyone within the Democrat Party, especially the Veep.
Did Trump Doom the Mail Ballot Fight for Republicans?
Republicans used to be the masters of mail ballots, but then came Donald Trump.
Across the nation, as voting by mail (absentee) expanded, President Trump talked about mail fraud and voting machine manipulation and insisted that Republicans cast their ballots in person, not via absentee.
On November 8, Election Day, Californians experienced severe rain throughout the state. How many voters fell ill that day, had to take their kids to practice, experienced long lines, and just went home? As all of us know, life happens.
For Republicans to be successful, they need to stop with the conspiracy theories and engage in all three types of voting – mail, early, and in-person. Play by the rules of the game and use all your weapons.
TikTok: Voting Conspiracies Continue to Doom Republican Votes
Republicans used to be the masters of mail ballots, then came Donald Trump with talk about mail fraud and voting machine manipulation. The problem with waiting is that life Happens. Play by the rules while you try to change the rules.
No Red Wave, Fetterman Wins, Eating Crow
Before the election, Hector and Mike wondered if Fetterman in PA would be the unforced error that costs the Democrats the Senate. But when the votes were counted, Fetterman was a Senator-elect, and the Red Wave mania turned out to be a Red-Wave illusion. Will GOP learn from its many mistakes or resort to the circular firing squad?
The political pilgrimage to Georgia begins with every political operative in the country, but the bottom line: it won’t make a difference. Democrats won everything they needed on November 8. We now know Nancy Pelosi will give up her gavel as Republicans take control of the House. With such a small margin, will the GOP equip all its members with heart monitors?
Abortion, civility, protecting democracy, and mini-Trumps seemed to be the issues that overcame the economy, inflation, and crime. The message was clear – time to look ahead and stop looking behind.
Does The Georgia Turnout Kill the Voter Suppression Narrative?
Georgia was ground zero in 2021 when the MLB All-Star game was moved from Atlanta to Colorado because of election integrity laws passed by the Georgia Legislature. Even the President and Vice President got involved calling it “Jim Crow 2.0” and saying it would “suppress the vote.” On Tuesday, Georgia voters will decide with their feet and their vote by going to the polls and voting. Right now, Georgia already has had more people voting in 2022 (an off-year election) than in the 2020 Presidential election. Will Biden, Harris, and all the other election integrity deniers eat crow when the vote totals are counted?
https://sos.ga.gov/news/georgia-voters-set-all-time-midterm-early-turnout-record
Want to Lower Gas Prices? Produce More At Home, Import Less from Our Enemies
Rather than begging foreign nations to increase oil production and lower their price, President Biden should just call up Gavin Newsom and have him sign the 1,200 oil permits that are collecting dust on his desk. There is no need to negotiate with countries who hate us and have purposely decreased oil production to side with Russia which is the Vice Chair of OPEC. We should become energy independent.
Is Fetterman the Unforced Error for Democrats?
US Senate candidate John Fetterman could have stepped down after his stroke and let the Democrats select another candidate. His argument would have made common sense - life-changing event, need to take care of his health and be there for his family, politics can wait. But instead, he let his ego overtake his common sense. Will it cost the Democrats a seat they thought they would win, and will it result in GOP control of the Senate? Hector and Mike talk about the Fetterman Effect on control of Congress.
Prop 1 Abortion is on the Ballot in California
Hector and Mike take a close look at Proposition 1 which would put in the state constitution the right to an abortion. But can a ballot measure that is only 37 words actually protect a woman's right to choose, or does it open the legal Pandora's box that puts the decision back in the hands of judges and lawyers?
Time for the mid-terms. Will Joe Biden's mid-term report card by the people cost Democrats the House, the Senate, Governorships?
Hector and Mike look at the various races around the country and the fight for the U.S. Senate, and answer the question will a Republican Red Wave reach California or crash short of the Golden State?
Campaign Ads: Newsom's Florida Ad & Mack's Twerking Ad Hits Rhode Island
Gavin Newsom is in Montana, running ads in Florida while running for Governor of California - the clear message to Kamala is that Newsom and his team don't believe she will make it out of the primary in 2024 if Biden doesn't run.
Gavin Newsom television ad in Florida, discusses the freedom and independence in California? But how much freedom do we really have? California has become a give-away state.
Hector and Mike discuss Newsom's action as a show for 2024 - to show the Democratic base that they shouldn't be afraid of Gov. Ron DeSantis or Trump and that 2024 will not be an anointing of Kamala.
Why is California paying our neighboring states $1 billion a year to take our energy? We have so much energy at certain times of the day that we (California) pay Arizona and Nevada to take our power because it could negatively impact the grid. Yes, we pay that cost on our electric bill.
Joe Biden's administration sells the United States's strategic petroleum oil to foreign countries, yet our gas prices remain at record highs. This further diminishes Biden's credibility. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/oil-us-reserves-head-overseas-gasoline-prices-stay-high-2022-07-05/
The latest ad by Rhode Island State Senator Tiara Mack's campaign for Secretary of State: A handstand twerk in a bikini. https://nypost.com/2022/07/14/ri-senator-tiara-mack-has-no-regrets-over-twerking-tiktok/
Homeless Get To Sue Under This Legislation
Hector and Mike talk about a piece of legislation that got out of committee. State Senator Melissa Melendez tweeted this: "Today the Senate Health Committee passed SB 1446, which says everyone has a legal right to housing and gives them the right to sue if they don't get it.”
SB 1446, or as we call it, “The Trail Lawyers Full Employment Act” is exactly the kind of legislation that makes California a laughingstock around the country.
California Democrats Hold the Line to Keep Gas Taxes Highest in America
California Democrats love to boast about how California is #1. The problem is when Dems yell “we’re number one,” it usually means a pile of number 2 for California taxpayers.
On Friday, April 19, California Democrats in the Legislature will refuse to hear and fail to report any legislation that would temporarily repeal the gas tax and give taxpayers some much needed relief.
Not only won’t there be gas tax holiday, but a new gas tax increase will be applied on July 1. Pack your bags now.
Gavin Is Already Playing the Trump Card
he election is seven months away, but Gavin Newsom is already playing the Trump card on GOP endorsed Governor candidate State Brian Dahle.
In a zoom meeting with campaign volunteers, Alexei Koseff (CALMatters reporter) wrote on Twitter that Gov. Newsom accused Brian of supporting the January 6 attack and not acknowledging Biden as president: "This guy is Trump through and through.”
This line of attack successfully worked against Larry Elder in the recall campaign, but will it work again? Everyone knows it’s just Gavin trying to talk about anything but the job he has done as Governor of California.
We talked with Brian, and he has more than once denounced the January 6 attack and has publicly acknowledged Biden as president. He also acknowledged that California has the highest gas prices in the nation, the greatest problems of homelessness in the nation, the highest cost of living in the nation, and the great flight of people from any state in the nation. We wonder when Gavin will acknowledge that.
Hector and Mike discuss the latest political attacks. Will they work, and what can Brian continue to do to deflect them?
Republicans Party in Anaheim
The California Republican Party held its spring convention in Anaheim this past week, and it featured Congressman Kevin McCarthy. The path to a Republican House comes through California, and the Minority Leader took the opportunity to raise the roof at the GOP Convention. The hope of the party faithful is that next time Kevin addresses the State GOP Convention, it will as Speaker of the House.
Mike and Hector discussed the pathway for McCarthy, the newly energized State GOP, their newly endorsed candidates, and what benefits come with that endorsement.
Here is a list of the endorsed Republican candidates for statewide office:
Sen. Brian Dahle: Governor - https://briandahle.com
Mark Meuser: U.S. Senate - https://markmeuser.com
Angela Underwood Jacobs: Lieutenant Governor - https://www.cityoflancasterca.org/government/commissions-appointments/deputy-mayor-underwood-jacobs
Nathan Hochman: Attorney General - https://www.nathanhochman.com
Lanhee Chen: Controller - https://chenforcalifornia.com
Amazingly Lanhee has already been endorsed by the Los Angeles Times!
Lance Christensen: Superintendent of Public Instruction - https://lancechristensen.com
More Economic Problems for the Biden Administration
High gas prices, inflation, and a flip-flop foreign policy agenda are causing more anxiety for millions of Americans as they get ready to vote in a few weeks. The GDP cratered in the first quarter of the 2022 to go along with the highest inflation in the last 40 years.
How bad are President Biden's numbers? Just 26% of Hispanic and 41% of youth voters approve of the job Biden is doing.
And American’s faith in our economy is even worse. A recent Gallup poll shows 42% of Americans believe the economic condition of the country is poor, and another 38% rate it only as fair. A whopping 2% rate the American economy as Excellent (no truth to the rumor that the 2% had last names of Biden and Harris).
The Early Release of Convicted Criminals and Human Traffickers
Crime is up in California, yet Sacramento politicians still don’t want to increase the penalties on criminals. They continue to support the early release of prisoners. This past week they voted to continue allowing convicted criminals who sell children for sex to get out of custody before their full sentence is complete. They voted to make the human trafficking of minors a non-serious and non-violent felony.
Ep 36 The Slap, CA Gas Prices and Biden’s New Tax Budget
In this episode, Hector and Mike discuss the slap - Where paper beats Rock. What if Taylor Swift had slapped Kayne West? Would the reaction have been the same?
Hector brings up the funny Don Rickles and Frank Sinatra story.
We look at Joe Biden’s talking points on his latest budget - full of new taxes. What’s the truth of these new taxes helping out Americans?
What good does being the climate leader when more and more people have to live farther away from their jobs because of the price of housing?
Will the Governor’s proposal to give a gas rebate help?
Gavin Newsom Has A New Challenger, Gavin Maskless, As Garcetti Held His Breath, and Getting Monkeys In the Mood
State Senator Brian Dahle has thrown his hat in the ring to take on Gavin Newsom for the Governorship of California.
Dahle is from Lassen County and currently represents the northeast part of California.
A “David versus Goliath” challenge.
Here are some quick facts on Dahle from ABC 10 News:
- He was born Sep. 20, 1965 in Redding.
- He lives in Bieber, Calif., with his wife Megan Dahle.
- He has three children.
- Dahle and his wife have a wheat farm and a related seed grain transport business in Bieber.
- He was on the Lassen County Board of Supervisors for 16 years before being elected to the State Assembly in 2012.
- In 2019, Dahle defeated fellow Republican Assemblyman Kevin Kiley in a special election for California’s vacant District 1 Senate seat.
- He is on multiple committees including: education, transportation and environmental quality.
- He is currently vice-chair of the energy, utilities & communications committee.
The RNC membership censured two Republican members who have criticized former president Donald Trump and the investigation of the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. But then US Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell rebuked the Republican Party officials for the censure.
As Gavin Newsom gets caught not wearing a mask at the NFL Playoff game, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti claimed he held his breath while being maskless at the football game.
If you are going to lie, at least make it believable - take the criticism and don’t make it worse for yourself.
We end with a crazy story out of English, where zoo officials hired a Marvin Gaye impersonator to sing in order t get the monkeys in the mood for sex.
Why couldn’t they play the music?
Groundhog Dies, Yet Gavin Caught Maskless Again - Government Wants To Set Pay and Benefits
Milltown Mel, a groundhog who has for years offered his weather predictions on Groundhog Day, has died.
Rest in Peace, Mel.
Groundhog Gavin: Talking about groundhog day, Gavin Newsom gets caught again not wearing his mask as he continues to defend his mandates. When confronted by reporters, Gavin responded that he was “very judicious” and took off his mask out of respect to Magic Johnson.
I doubt those excuses would fly for our students or people in the workplace.
California State Government Takeover of Franchises: Under approved legislation, the Governor of California and two Democrat leaders would be empowered to appoint a commission to set minimum wages, working hours, work conditions, and other items.
What about the $15 minimum wage? And how do you give that much power to the State of California? They can’t pay unemployment benefits on time. They are spending billions on a train for the past decade that still hasn’t laid down a single track or the State Controller computer system that is now on its 18th year and hundreds of millions of dollars over budget.
Mike Talks about Tom Brady and what is next for him.
Ground Hog Dies: https://www.npr.org/2022/02/01/1077352159/groundhog-day-milltown-mel-dies
Maskless Gavin: https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/31/politics/gavin-newsom-eric-garcetti-london-breed-maskless-rams-game/index.html
Government Takeover of CA Franchises: https://calmatters.org/commentary/2022/01/fast-food-bill-will-discourage-small-business-owners/
Kamala to the Supreme Court? Crazy Liability Insurance for Gun Owners and Mike's Football Predictions
After 28 years on the Supreme Court, Justice Stephen Breyer will step down at the end of the current term.
Joe Biden and the rest of the Democrat Party are looking for Breyer's replacement.
One name that has popped up as a potential nominee is California Justice Leondra Kruger. Kruger, appointed to California's Supreme Court by Gov. Jerry Brown in 2014, is widely known in Washington legal circles, where she worked for the Bush and Obama administration Justice Departments.
But what about Kamala Harris? What better way to get her out of the White House and find a replacement who can be more helpful to the Administration.
***
The San Jose City Council will require gun owners to buy liability insurance for their firearms and pay fees for "initiatives to reduce gun violence and gun harm." One of the worse PR stunts I've seen in the past 20+ years.
Maybe residents should buy liability insurance for these criminal justice warriors' dumb ideas and soft on crime policies.
***
As Mike continues to mourn Tom Brady's loss, he gives us his weekend NFL predictions, and we talk about some potential NFL retirements.
Crazy Joe Arrives At The White House
Joe Biden says that if you support voter id, you are racist, yet I have to show id and my vaccination card to enter a restaurant in LA. Even in Mexico, they have voter id.
Biden has polarized the right and alienated the people in the middle and some Democrats.
This type of intolerance is not what many expected from the Biden/Harris administration - the people who voted for them expected a more moderate tone.
This is part 1 of our 3 part podcast.
Ooops…She did it again. Not Brittany but Kamala
A New Year but the same rookie mistakes by VP Kamala Harris. In an interview with Administration-friendly MSNBC VP Harris came across as out of touch, told people to “GO Google,” lacked basic facts of the Administration’s own program, and somehow ended up giving props to the work of the Trump Administration.
Last night, Vice President Kamala Harris sat down with MSNBC reporter Craig Melvin to discuss the Omicron variant and the Biden/Harris administration response.
Kamala started her interview by praising the work of creating the vaccines, the boosters and acknowledged that when COVID-19 first hit the United States, there was much we didn't know, but that we are in a much better position now. Without saying Trump's name, the vaccines, booster, therapeutics and the operations for those getting them approved and distributed happened under the Trump administration. That had to leave some people in the West Wing shaking their head.
But now, as we are about to enter the 3rd year of COVID, the Biden/Harris administration act like the Three Stooges are running the show.
In the interview with Melvin, Kamala can't remember how many home COVID tests they ordered and when asked about testing sites, she responds with "do google." She goes on to explain when you want to find a new restaurant go goggle it on how to get there. Apparently to her finding a restaurant and finding a place to get a COVID test are equal.
Why doesn't the Health and Human Service department have a site where people can plug in their zip code and the nearest COVID sites appear? Why doesn't Harris know that her administration told the American people that they had ordered 500 million home test kits? And "do google" is her answer?
After that interview is it any wonder the approval ratings of Harris and Biden are so low.
Mike Gets 4th Vaccine Shot, CA Water Fines and Denmark's Giant Penis Children's Show
While antibody levels eventually wane, some people lose them in a few months. Mike discusses his 4th vaccine.
With record snow and water, Governor Newsom's administration institutes water fines. Where is all that water going? Why is it being flushed into the ocean?
Denmark launched a children's TV show about a man with a giant penis. This penis helps walk dogs, can be used as a pogo stick, and even save children from drowning.
John Oliver on Denmark’s Dillermand: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A51mJjFyG_w
More Than a FI$Cal Crisis Plagues California
Thanks to Lanhee Chen (ChenForCalifornia.com) for pointing out the State Controller’s Financial Information System for California (FI$Cal) accounting system that has been in the works for 18 years, at the cost of $1 billion, and it is still not completed.
18 years and more delays.
As @Lanheechen pointed out: “It took 7 years to land on the moon after JFK’s moon speech and 4 yrs to build the Golden Gate Bridge. It shouldn’t be this hard.”
We agree! How many other delayed computer projects are there in the state?
From the Sacramento Bee: "California’s $1 billion accounting program delayed again, could affect state’s credit" https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article257054247.html
IRS Wants Thieves to Pay Taxes on Stolen Property and The New CDC Isolation Requirements
Hector and Mike look at a bonehead move by the Internal Revenue Service requiring thieves to list all the stolen property on their 2021 taxes forms.
At first, many reporters and communications experts thought it was fake news, but it is real.
https://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/nation-world/national/article256887637.html
Hector and Mike also provide an update on the new CDC isolation/quarantine requirements. When does the clock start? What if you received a booster shot? https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s1227-isolation-quarantine-guidance.html
And how can the Biden Administration be flatfooted with Omicron?
Finally, Hector and Mike look at some of the new laws and potential focus for the California State Legislature in the New Year, and they offer up their New Year’s Resolutions.
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