SoCal in 17

California's primary election is a little over two weeks away, and big money is making its way into local races — pitting moderate Democrats against progressive Democrats. Plus, the Senate race heats up with Rep. Adam Schiff launching ads featuring Republican Steve Garvey. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and co-host Sara Sadhwani look into whether Schiff could be trying to elevate his profile to his benefit. Finally, tides shift when it comes to campaigning, with many candidates pivoting from traditional exposure outlets like debates to joining TikTok.

Rep. Adam Schiff continues in the lead in California's Senate race, but former professional baseball player Steve Garvey poses a threat to another Democrat that aspires to make it to the general election ballot. Plus, after Nikki Haley's embarrassing defeat in Nevada, what her candidacy brings to the presidential race. Finally, "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and Ben Oreskes from the LA Times discuss the latest blow to journalism and what the future of their profession looks like amid a changing landscape.

Immigration seems to be the No. 1 issue across the country, and Republicans are attempting to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas over it. The issue will play out in some congressional districts in California, potentially shifting the balance of power in the House. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down those races in the Golden State. Then, Rep. Katie Porter's U.S. House seat is open as she runs for Senate, and two Democrats are battling each other to keep it blue. And cleanup on aisle 6. Gov. Gavin Newsom went shopping at Target and you won't believe what happened.

Republican strategist Anne Hyde Dunsmore joins "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen to dissect former President Donald Trump's sweeping win in New Hampshire and how Nikki Haley has managed to get under his skin. Plus, Republican Steve Garvey joins three Democratic candidates on stage in the Senate race, but his chances of making it on the ballot could depend on one Democrat in particular. Finally, the plan that could already be in play by democrats to have Gov. Gavin Newsom replace President Joe Biden on the presidential ticket.

As "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen is on a much-deserved break, co-host Sara Sadhwani is joined by Los Angeles City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez to discuss her role in selecting the LA Police Department's next chief of police. Plus, as a member of the Housing and Homelessness Committee, Rodriguez comments on the cost of Mayor Karen Bass' Inside Safe program and a settlement to provide 20,000 beds for homeless people. Finally, Rodriguez shares her thoughts on the efforts of another councilmember to ban rodeos in the city.

Gov. Gavin Newsom revealed his budget plans to address an almost $38 billion deficit this week. During the presentation, he slammed the Wall Street Journal for a recent wealth tax editorial. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break it down. Then, there's been some notable departures in leadership in Los Angeles. Both the LA Times executive editor and the LADWP president stepped down from their roles. And Hunter Biden caused a commotion in Congress before his court appearance in downtown LA. In This Episode Read the Governor's Budget Summary Read the Politico piece on Anthony York

A local bakery closed its doors after three decades and blamed the high cost of doing business in California. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani look at the trend that could further impact the states' $68 billion deficit. Also, the attempt to get former President Donald Trump off of the primary ballot in California highlights a divide between Gov. Gavin Newsom and his lieutenant governor. Lastly, they discuss the disruption that protesters calling for a cease-fire in Gaza caused on the first day of California legislative session.

"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen wraps up the year by interviewing California Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, who Politico recently described as an "ambitious politician." Bryan comments on that label and explains why he opposed a bill to make the sex trafficking of a minor a serious crime in California. Plus, he outlines his priorities as the new chair of the Natural Resources Committee.

As we wrap up the year, "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen is bringing listeners conversations with politicians who are ones to watch in 2024, including California's Attorney General Rob Bonta. Bonta discusses his approach to fighting climate change and recent changes in school districts through litigation, his successful lawsuits against the Trump administration and his interest in running for governor. Bonta was tapped to be the new attorney general when Xavier Becera took on a new role in the Biden administration.

Malibu's own Hunter Biden, beaten down and his reputation in the mud, makes his case for redemption — on the steps of Congress. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down the additional scrutiny he is facing. Then, traffic jams are nothing new in Los Angeles, but a recent one that impacted the 110 Freeway was politically motivated. What message did it send and will it change anyone's mind? And it's the most wonderful time of the year, with a number of elected officials celebrating their year anniversary. LA Mayor Karen Bass was one of them, and the hosts look back at her time in office and impact.

Kevin McCarthy has had enough and is heading home. Hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down the startling development and what it means for both Congress and California. Plus, President Joe Biden is coming to town. They look at his fundraising plans in Southern California amid his reelection campaign and Israel-Hamas cease-fire calls. Then, Lindsey Horvath recently became the youngest Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors chair, which is telling of how age is playing a role in current politics — especially in thinking about the upcoming presidential election. And finally, a look at the new LA report detailing how 6 out of 10 city employees don't actually live in LA. Alex and Sara discuss the catch-22 tied to the report.

"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani deconstruct the red state, blue state debate between Ron DeSantis and Gavin Newsom that came with a side helping of Sean Hannity. Who won? Does anyone care? Speaking of Newsom, his plan to help those struggling with mental health issues launches in Los Angeles County. What kind of legacy will Care Court be for him? And a breakdown of the independent redistricting coming to Los Angeles. Then a look at the late Sandra Day O'Connor's connection to California. She was the first woman to serve in the U.S. Supreme Court.

As tradition has it, November is full of surprises in the world of politics, and Thanksgiving week was no different. Coming off the heals of the Democratic Convention in Sacramento, Rep. Tony Cárdenas declared he would not seek reelection next year for the 29th Congressional District seat representing the San Fernando Valley. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani explain the significance of Cárdenas making his announcement after the convention. Plus, back from the event, Sara reports on the Israeli-Palestinian protests that shut the convention down. And a look at who's in and who's out for the most powerful posts in the California Assembly. Lastly, something to be thankful for. The reopening of Interstate 10 happened sooner than expected following a fire.

While the smoldering 10 Freeway slowed to a stop, the blame game was full speed ahead. Gov. Gavin Newsom confirmed the fire was believed to be arson, but there were plenty of opinions flying around. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and guest host Kate Cagle run headfirst into the fire zone and attempt to sort out the mess. This week, the Los Angeles City Council also approved a 4% increase in rents next year for units under the city's rent stabilization ordinance. Is an eviction tsunami on the way? Then, they discuss the first LA County district attorney debate, featuring the incumbent George Gascón. Down in Santa Ana, the recall effort failed, allowing Santa Ana City Councilmember Jessie Lopez to hang on to her seat. And finally, 'tis the holiday season and the LA Police Department opens its shop for those looking for gifts.

Buckle up. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani try to make sense of the "topsy-turvy" events in local politics. This week, brawls broke out at the Los Angeles Museum of Tolerance when a film screened about the Hamas attack on Israel. And earlier in the week, an altercation at a Westlake Village rally tied to the Israel-Hamas war led to a man's death. Sara, who works on a college campus, explains how students are fired up as the Middle East situation intensifies. Meanwhile, Gov. Gavin Newsom's popularity has declined amid negative headlines and his recent trip to China, despite the fact that his policies remain popular. California voters also seem generally unhappy with President Joe Biden as of late. On more local levels, Alex and Sara address LA Councilmember John Lee suing the Ethics Commission after it accused him of violations. Meanwhile, Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo remains in hot water after she recently crashed into two vehicles and was booked on suspicion of DUI. And down in Orange County, a judge has refused to halt an ongoing recall election against Santa Ana Councilmember Jessie Lopez.

The situation in the Middle East continues to have ripple effects in Southern California, causing a divide even among those on the left. Protest at college campuses and across the city have given a rise to antisemitic events. Earlier this week, one such event took place at Canter's Deli, where slurs were spray painted on the side of the building. And another salacious scandal rocks Los Angeles City Hall — this time after a councilman's aide makes Holocaust jokes about comedian Amy Schumer on social media. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani have the inside scoop on the fallout. Then, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Green introduced a motion to censure Rep. Rashida Talib for her response to the hospital bombing in Gaza and later went on Tucker Carlson's show to call out Rep. Young Kim from Orange County. And the latest Cook report was released, and it's unclear if some Republicans in California will be able to hold on to their seats. A look at how the Golden State could play a big role in the 2024 elections. And finally, there's so much going on in Santa Ana, including redistricting, elections and recalls. Get a breakdown.

More than three weeks after the ouster of Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the saga to find the next speaker of the House is finally over - will the left's simmering rage at the election of Speaker Mike Johnson mean trouble for SoCal Republican representatives? "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani weigh the possibilities. And a look at the job that Laphonza Butler said she will not run for after she's done filling the Senate seat left vacant by Dianne Feinstein's death. Then, a look at what Gov. Gavin Newsom did and did not do during his visits to Israel and China. Finally, why Mark Gonzalez, the LA County Democratic Party chair and candidate for Assembly District 54, didn't make the list of endorsements by The Stonewall Democrats.

It's been a wild ride in the ongoing House speaker vote and so has it been for the conflict in the Middle East. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss how the battle for leadership in Congress and the Middle East war have roiled Southern California politics. Recently, a Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors meeting turned contentious when they took up a resolution condemning the attack on Israel. And protesters stood in front of Vice President Kamala Harris' Brentwood home demanding a cease-fire. Then, a candidate forum for the district attorneys race gave voice to those in the race vying to replace George Gascón. And finally, a former TV journalist enters the race for the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein's seat, joining Reps. Katie Porter, Adam Schiff and Barbara Lee.

The Palestinian and Israeli conflict that has lit up the Middle East has drawn battle lines in SoCal as well. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani dig deep into the ripple effect it's had on local politics. Then, this past week was the one-year anniversary of the leaked City Hall recordings. Find out what the impact has been in Los Angeles. And in the race for the White House, Californian candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has decided to run as an Independent. Alex and Sara look into what that might do to this election.

Chaos in the House overshadowed the passing of Sen. Dianne Feinstein, with SoCal native Kevin McCarthy being ousted as speaker this week. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani get their arms around the life and legend of the late senator. They also discuss what it means for the U.S. Senate and Laphonza Butler's appointment to complete the late senator's term. Then they dive into the historic ouster of McCarthy and look at what's next for the California native. And they dive into what former President Donald Trump's presence in Anaheim means for the future of the California GOP.

Hot on the heels of the Republican presidential debate in Simi Valley, all eyes turn to Anaheim, which is hosting the California Republican Convention. Among those attending is former President Donald J. Trump. In this episode taped before the news of California Sen. Dianne Feinstein death was announced, “Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down the debate and name the winners: unfazed Trump and Gavin Newsom — and neither was at the Ronald Reagan Library. Then, the race for LA City Council District 14 is also heating up with a lot of candidates, including incumbent Councilmember Kevin de León. De León, who did not resign after the leaked City Hall tapes, recently announced he will seek reelection next year. And speaking of the tapes, Nury Martinez will tell her side of the story for the first time in a podcast with LAist.

On this week's episode, GOP strategist and fundraiser Anne Hyde Dunsmore joins “Inside the Issues” podcast host Alex Cohen to break down the NPP (no party preference phenomenon) and how it is weakening the GOP. As the gap between Democrats and Republicans grows, Dunsmore says some voters believe the two-party system can be the biggest obstacle to solutions. Dunsmore breaks down the gender, age and income of those who choose NPP, and discusses the results of a recent poll that could give the GOP a glimmer of hope with voters as the 2024 presidential election kicks into high gear.

Former Los Angeles Sheriff Alex Villanueva, thrashed in his re-election bid, announces a run for a county supervisor. "Inside the Issues" podcast hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani wonder whether he's motivated by public service or revenge on the supervisors who made his term one long political slugfest. Also on this week's episode, LA City Council's redistricting commission and Alex talks to Republican presidential candidate Douglas James Burgum, who discusses what Californians can learn about the world of high-tech.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass had a meeting of the minds this week at City Hall about homelessness. Along with other city mayors, they meet with Biden senior adviser Tom Perez. Perez preached optimism, not futility, when discussing LA homelessness. When is a fed not a fatalist? "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani examine this "Kumbaya" attitude change and what it means for SoCal. Plus, a look at new polls. One shows former President Donald Trump has a lead among Republican voters in California for the March 5 primary. The other looks at the Senate race heating up in California and shows Rep. Adam Schiff leading. And the hot labor summer is now dragging into fall. This week, President Biden congratulated dockworkers on their contract, but what about all the other work stoppage? Finally, the campaign of a politician running for office sent out the wrong photo of the candidate. How Kevin Sabellico reacted to the mess up and what it says about him.

This week, former Supervisor and Los Angeles City Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas was sentenced to 3 1/2 years in prison, with the judge specifically saying they wanted to make an example out of him. Ridley-Thomas dug in his heels with a statement before the sentencing, but was convicted anyway. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani take a look at the man who majored in ethics at USC, then was busted for an ethics violation in a case involving USC. Then a sex trafficking bill introduced by state Sen. Shannon Grove in Sacramento is causing a kerfuffle with all sorts of LA implications. Also, will the debate between Gov. Gavin Newson and Gov. Ron DeSantis actually happen? And a look at how a political force in the San Fernando Valley is being honored for her work after being recently diagnosed with terminal cancer.

The first event of the 2024 presidential election cycle took place in Milwaukee. And California took center stage when participants brought up the topic of crime and safety. It happened on the same night a mass shooting in Orange County claimed the lives of four people, including the gunman. The Republican debate, sans Donald Trump, had a lot of oratory, but was there any substance? “Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break it down and talk the candidates' strategy. Then a discussion about the controversy surrounding LGBTQ youth that has protesters facing off over parental rights. It's gotten so heated that just this week, a store owner in Lake Arrowhead was killed over a Pride flag.  Finally, it's been busy at City Hall. Last week, the Los Angeles City Council rejected LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia's pick for the ethics commission and this week, they approved the LA Police Department contract.

There is now a fourth indictment against former President Donald Trump, and while it's all playing out in Georgia, there's a California connection: a former dean and professor at Chapman law school. Trump attorney John Eastman, who was among the 19 indicted, does not want to be disbarred, and he does not want to be disgraced — will he be successful at either? "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani breakdown this battle royale. Then a look at the latest developments in the Bulgari hotel project that has divided neighbors who have concerns about its impact. And they dive into the politics of a recent spate of smash-and-grab robberies in SoCal.

Los Angeles City Council member Curren Price returned to City Hall this week after being booked on corruption charges. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Sara Sadhwani and co-host Kate Cagle, who is filling in for Alex Cohen, discuss his return. Will he pay a price for his alleged transgressions, or will all be forgiven? This week also saw the hot labor summer continue to heat up with LA city workers hitting the picket lines just like writers, actors and hotel workers. And some new LA council members have gotten into trouble with activists, including Council member Eunisses Hernandez. She questioned whether preserving the home of Morris Kight would be the right move because of the city's housing crisis when the council debated its historic monument designation.

Some serious presidential politics are happening across Southern California. Former President Donald Trump announced he'll attend the GOP convention in Anaheim. The second GOP primary debate will take place at the Ronald Reagan Library. And the California GOP recently held a fundraiser for Kennedy scion Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The anti-mask and anti-vax Democrat stormed into the Southland seeking supporters and donators. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani analyze his campaign and wonder whether RFK Jr. can sway people. And Los Angeles isn't the only SoCal city with corruption concerns. A look at what is going on in Anaheim and the allegations made regarding $1.5 million in COVID-19 relief funds. Then, LA City Council members return from recess as the eviction moratorium ends. Could an eviction tsunami be on the way? And even Taylor Swift's concerts at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood have gotten political. Some politicians, including Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, have asked Swift to postpone her shows in support of striking hotel workers.

While workers battle for wages on the ground, our representatives look to the sky - is it a bird, is it a plane, or is it a UFO? California Rep. Robert Garcia was the leading Democrat on the subcommittee held on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena. He said the American people deserved transparency. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani ask whether you believe. Do you believe the truth is out there? Do you believe those striking will get what they're asking for? UPS workers already have, and they're on the verge of avoiding a strike. Their deal just needs to be ratified with a vote. But the hot labor summer continues, as hotel workers continue with a third wave of their strike that's having some unintended consequences. This week, protesters showed up at the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors meeting just like they have at the LA City Council meetings. And a newly elected council member is calling for more decorum. And finally, a former employee at the Federation of Labor is being investigated in connection with the City Hall leaked tapes.

Trouble at the border, trouble in the sheriff's office and trouble in Hollywood. The long hot summer has things sizzling in Southern California. And it's been made even more complicated due to a memo that came from City Hall cautioning elected officials not to take sides. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and guest co-host Kate Cagle break down the strikes and their impact on the city. Plus, an explanation on why another bus of migrants recently arrived in Los Angeles. And the latest on the use-of-force incidents for which the LA County Sheriff's Department is under investigation. Finally, a look at who won at the Echo Park Lotus Festival dragon boat races over the weekend.

Homelessness is up in the county and city of Los Angeles, according to the latest homelessness count. Host Alex Cohen recounts her trip to Portland that shed light on how bad the situation can get. Could LA be next? She and "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" co-host Sara Sadhwani dive into the nitty gritty. Plus, what LA can do to avoid the same fate? Then, the latest on the Skid Row Trust and the LA City Council District 6 special election. Plus, how the Council avoided the timing of the certification by making Imelda Padilla a temporary member. And City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto avoids protesters.

"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" revisits a past episode with former Los Angeles City Councilman Mike Bonin. He and his family were the targets of the vicious, racist City Hall recordings — he talks about their cause and effects.

It is that time of the year when lawmakers are trying to figure out what can be done with the money the state has. A $32 billion, with a capital "B," deficit would terrify most politicians, but not Anthony Rendon — he's got this. On this special episode, Rendon joins "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen to discuss the state budget, his journey to becoming a politician and why he is leaving his post as the assembly speaker after seven years. Plus, what he's most proud of accomplishing.

Days after being voted as the new president pro tempore amid the latest Los Angeles City Hall scandal, Council member Marqueece Harris-Dawson joins "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen. Harris-Dawson, who represents Council District 8, replaced Council member Curren Price. Price stepped down as president pro tempore after being charged with embezzlement, perjury and conflict of interest. On this special episode, Harris-Dawson opens up about whether racist prosecutors target Black politicians. "It feels like we are being hunted," Harris-Dawson said.

It's been an extraordinary week in Southern California politics, with the fourth City Council politician facing criminal charges in four years. Councilman Curren Price was charged earlier this week with 10 counts of embezzlement, perjury and conflict of interest. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down what it means for folks in District 9. Plus, why now and why are other local politicians saddened by the situation? Plus, a look at the parallels with former President Donald Trump's indictment. And the connection to the Council District 6 election, which has candidates Marisa Alcaraz and Imelda Padilla, who is currently the environmental policy director and deputy chief of staff to Price, running the spot vacated by former LA City Council president Nury Martinez.

Glendale school parents erupted and disrupted in protest outside the district's headquarters — all over a Pride proposal. Last week, a similar situation happened in North Hollywood, where parents disagreed on what should and shouldn't be taught in schools. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss the issues and ask why now and who should be responsible for teaching children? Then, the immigration debate heats up again with the latest edition of Gov. Gavin Newsom vs. Gov. Ron DeSantis. Just this week, migrants seeking asylum were flown and dropped off in Sacramento in a move indicating they were California's responsibility. And more on the housing crisis with a string of eviction notices leading to growing concerns about a Skid Row receiver that city officials installed to oversee the buildings. Plus, the Ad Hoc City Governance Committee's final public hearing at City Hall is happening Monday. It's the last opportunity for residents to weigh in on independent redistricting and increasing the size of the LA City Council.

"Don't agonize, organize!" That was the theme of the state Democratic Party convention held over the weekend in Los Angeles. Nancy Pelosi was in town, and so were other U.S. Senate contenders. Adam Schiff, who is serious about being serious, let his inner comedian loose at the convention. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss the potential factors that voters may use to decide who will replace Sen. Dianne Feinstein. And a major factor in the state's tourism industry is the disruption that Airbnb and Vrbo have caused by contributing to the housing crisis. They also break down new laws that might come down the pipeline regarding this hot topic. Plus a look at the power of Asian American voters in Los Angeles City Council elections, and a look ahead at what is happening during Pride Month.

The Dodgers invited, then rescinded and then invited back the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, an order of queer and trans nuns, after receiving backlash from local and national politicians chiming in. Then, the Los Angeles City Council is all for an independent redistricting commission — as long as it reports to them. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down the fight for control. And the Council approved the city's budget with Council member Eunisses Hernandez being the lone vote saying no. The "robot dog" was also approved by the Council with some members absent. And the latest on luxury hotels, including the LVMH luxury hotel project that Beverly Hills residents voted on to decide its fate.

This week, Council member Katy Young Yaroslavsky lost her bid to block a controversial development in Benedict Canyon. And on Mother's Day, Los Angeles political firebrand Gloria Molina died after a battle with cancer. Her influence has left its mark in City Hall and in the community that continues to mourn the trailblazer. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss her political legacy and why her purity made her so special. And a look at why LA Mayor Karen Bass is unconcerned that the City Council is weighing in on her budget. Bass also traveled to Sacramento to lobby for more money for her homelessness budget. Then, Gov. Gavin Newsom's explanation of why the state budget has grown to $31.5 billion. And former LA Mayor Eric Garcetti is back as ambassador to India. He sent his first dispatch from India and it was pure Eric Garcetti.

After an extended absence, Sen. Dianne Feinstein returned to the Capitol this week in a wheelchair. Should she walk away from the Senate? "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani wonder if the legendary legislator is way too far past her prime. Feinstein's return happened during a pretty big week for the Biden administration, when Title 42 and the COVID-19 public health emergency are set to end. The Biden-Harris campaign also announced its 50-member board, including eight Californians. Notably missing from the list is Feinstein. It's also budget season and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has been getting some pushback on hers from the City Council. And things got a little spicy on Cinco de Mayo when Councilman Kevin de León gave a presentation that got disrupted by a protester, who had a knife.

A recent Los Angeles Times report estimated that SoCal's snowpack level is at 254% above normal and most of the state is no longer in a drought. But what will happen when the temperatures warm? "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" co-host Sara Sadhwani and climate guru Dr. Michael Mendez look at a looming problem: the inevitable consequences of a melting mass of mountain snow sliding onto SoCal. They also dive into the intensifying Los Angeles City Council District 14 race to replace Council member Kevin de León, who has been roiled by controversy following the leaked racist tape scandal. This week also marked May Day, also known as International Workers' Day. They break down how the labor movement is also embracing the mitigation of climate change, since farmworkers are being disproportionately impacted.

It's official. President Joe Biden announced his reelection bid this week. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss all the California angles, including the Californians running against him and Gov. Gavin Newsom's Biden endorsement. Could Newsom's allyship pay off? Loyalty is a word usually not associated with politicians, except if that politician is Biden — just ask Eric Garcetti. Then, allies form in Sacramento in the debate over fentanyl in an attempt to curb its use. And taxpayers spent $400,000 on security at City Hall in the wake of the leaked racist conversation. Was that too much? In Orange County, the election shuffle continues with Harley Rouda bowing out of the congressional race. Who is still in the running?

Los Angeles is not where it should be, but a new LA is possible. That was the message that Mayor Karen Bass delivered during her first State of the City address.  A day later, Bass announced her $13 billion city budget, which includes a push to hire more LA Police Department officers. She described it as an investment. “Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down Bass' announcements. Then, they discuss how the city, LAPD and police union are spinning the “undercover cop” scandal, which began when the LAPD released police officer information to a journalist and it was published.  And the latest on the political musical chairs.

It was a messy week in SoCal politics at the national level with calls for Sen. Dianne Feinstein's resignation. And locally, some were not happy with the Los Angeles City Council appointing Heather Hutt to complete the remainder of the term of former Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas. “Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani delve into the council races, where one will get a special election but not Council District 10. They also discuss LA Assemblyman Miguel Santiago's announcement that he will seek to unseat embattled Councilman Kevin de León. Then, they break down the accusations of workplace harassment that LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia is facing.

"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani talk about the man, the myth, the convicted felon: enigmatic former Los Angeles politician Mark Ridley-Thomas. And they discuss the future of District 10 and the potential for a special election and what it may cost the city to hold one. Plus, Alex and Sara break down the latest results in the District 6 special election and preview what Friday's results could tell us. Also, they talk about Gov. Gavin Newsom's new political action committee where he has pledged to boost Democrats in the reddest of red states ahead of the 2024 election in preparation for what could be a future run for president.

The bribery trial of former Los Angeles City Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas continues as the LA Unified School District strike ended. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani look into the federal trial of Ridley-Thomas, who was charged with 19 counts of bribery and corruption. And they discuss another council member, Hugo Soto-Martinez, who made a bold move this week by having the fence around Echo Park come down. Plus, they break down the special election of council District 6 and the politics of the three-day LAUSD walkout.

This week officially marked the first 100 days of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass in office. Bass touted her homeless stats, but were they hopeful, or just hype? "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss the impact she has had on the city so far. And they look at the political implications of the LA Unified School District strike, which overshadowed Bass' 100th day when members of the Service Employees International Union Local 99 took to the picket lines amid stalled labor talks to demand a salary boost. Then, former LA Mayor Eric Garcetti — who facilitated the end of the 2019 teachers' strike — finally got the votes to become the next United States ambassador to India following a long confirmation process.

Gov. Gavin Newsom is forgoing a typical State of the State address this year. Instead, he is opting for a statewide tour to highlight his major policy goals. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down Newsom's unique take on the address. They also discuss the Los Angeles City Council District 6 special election to replace former President and Councilwoman Nury Martinez following her resignation amid the City Hall scandal. Plus, President Joe Biden recently visited California to talk about international relations and gun control. Alex and Sara discuss the significance of Biden selecting the state. And they chat about Ed Begley Jr. The actor is showing up all over the place from riding Metro to the Oscars to making political endorsements.

Is Los Angeles ready for a 300-pound crime-fighting canine? "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and special co-host Kate Cagle bite into the robodog controversy. Then, LA doubles down on becoming a sanctuary city by taking a step forward from the current symbolic measure to wanting to codify policies. They discuss what it would mean for undocumented immigrants. And LA District Attorney George Gascón had a very bad, no-good week after losing a retaliation case. With 16 similar suits waiting in the wings, could this be a grim omen for him?

President Joe Biden on Tuesday nominated Julie Su to lead the U.S. Department of Labor. If confirmed, the former head of the California labor department would become the first Asian American cabinet secretary in the Biden administration.  “Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss Su's politically charged, probably difficult, path to become Biden's labor secretary. They also analyze former Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti's journey to becoming the U.S. ambassador to India after the president renominated him. And they talk about the Los Angeles County supervisors considering an expansion of their five-member board that represents nearly 10 million residents.