The John Phillips Show

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Gavin Newsom Is Podcasting In Michigan Instead Of Visiting Boyle Heights Aug 15, 2026

Show notes

This week on the show, we're discussing the state of California's governorship and the future of the state. With the upcoming election just around the corner, we're diving into the latest developments in the gubernatorial race between Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton. But first, our guest Phil Mauriello Junior joins us to talk about his new book, The Gilded State, and his thoughts on the current state of California politics.

Phil shares his insights on the recent environmental disaster in Boyle Heights, where a fire at a cold storage facility has left residents suffering from health issues due to the smell of rotting food. He also discusses the lack of response from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who has been criticized for his absence from the issue. Phil believes that Newsom's inaction is a result of his desire to maintain a squeaky-clean image ahead of his potential presidential run.

We also discuss the upcoming special election to replace Eric Swalwell in the Congressional seat he vacated due to allegations of sexual assault. The candidates, Aisha Wahab and Melissa Hernandez, are engaging in a heated campaign, with millions of dollars being spent on ads and social media attacks. But what's behind the intense spending, and what does it say about the state of the Democratic Party?

Tune in to hear more about these topics and the latest developments in California politics. Join us as we explore the complexities of the gubernatorial race, the future of the state, and the impact of national politics on local issues.

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Daniel Guss On The Madness At LA City Hall Aug 14, 2026

Show notes

This week on the show, we're diving into the latest news and updates from the world of California politics. From the upcoming mayoral election to the city's ongoing struggles with homelessness and crime, we're covering it all. Our guest, Daniel Guss, joins us to share his insights on the current state of affairs at City Hall and the latest developments in the mayoral race. We'll also be discussing the recent surge in catalytic converter thefts and the new trend of "cash trapping" at ATMs. And, as always, we'll be sharing our thoughts on the latest news and current events.

The mayoral election is heating up, with Karen Bass and Nythia Ramen vying for the top spot. Our guest, Daniel Gus, shares his expertise on the city's politics and the latest news from City Hall. We'll also be discussing the recent controversy surrounding Lineage and the city's handling of the Boyle Heights cleanup. And, in a shocking twist, we'll be talking about the surprising connection between the city's politicians and the recent surge in catalytic converter thefts.

But that's not all - we'll also be discussing the new trend of "cash trapping" at ATMs, where thieves are using devices to steal cash from unsuspecting victims. We'll be sharing tips on how to protect yourself from this type of scam and what you can do to stay safe. And, as always, we'll be sharing our thoughts on the latest news and current events.

So, if you're interested in staying up-to-date on the latest news and updates from California, tune in to this episode of The Fix California Hour. Join us as we discuss the mayoral election, catalytic converter thefts, and the latest scams targeting Californians. Don't miss out on the conversation - listen now and stay informed!

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Karen Bass's Desperate Pivot to Mamdani & the DSA Aug 14, 2026

Show notes

The City's Dirty Little Secret

This episode of the show is a scathing critique of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass's leadership, particularly in the wake of the Lineage warehouse fire that's been plaguing the Boyle Heights community for months. The speaker takes aim at Bass's lack of action and her tendency to make empty promises, citing the city's failure to address the ongoing crisis and the mayor's recent video attempting to spin the situation as a success.

The conversation delves into the details of the Lineage warehouse fire, which has left millions of pounds of rotting food and a trail of health problems in its wake. The speaker questions the city's handling of the situation, pointing out that the cleanup efforts are still ongoing and that the community is suffering as a result. The discussion also touches on the city's response to the crisis, including the mayor's announcement that the company will not meet the deadline to clean up the site.

The speaker is not afraid to call out Bass's leadership, labeling her a "complete disaster" and pointing out that she has failed to address the city's most pressing issues, including homelessness and public safety. The conversation also highlights the city's lack of transparency and accountability, with the speaker criticizing the mayor's office for not taking responsibility for the city's mistakes.

If you want to hear more about the Lineage warehouse fire and the city's response, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's unfiltered take on the situation. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation that will leave you questioning the leadership of Los Angeles' current mayor.

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Scottie Nell Hughes: Who Trump Actually Wants as His Next Press Sec Aug 14, 2026

Show notes

The world of politics is heating up, and this episode of The John Phillips Show is a must-listen. Joining the conversation is a journalist, political consultant, and strategist who's making waves in the media world. Scottie Nell Hughes. She's a 22-to-1 favorite to become the next White House Press Secretary, and she's got some surprising insights on what it takes to succeed in this high-pressure role.

This episode is a thought-provoking discussion on the evolution of the White House Press Secretary position, from its origins as a clarifying role to its current state as a defensive linebacker for the president. The guest shares her expertise on how the job has changed over time, particularly with the rise of social media and the increasing polarization of the media landscape. She also delves into the importance of having a strong communication director who can set the tone for the next presidential campaign.

The conversation also touches on the Democratic Party's struggles with the DSA, a group that's been gaining traction with its progressive policies. The guest explains why the party is hesitant to engage with the DSA's ideas, and how this might impact the party's future. Additionally, she discusses the importance of addressing the affordability crisis in the nation, and how the Republican Party can take a more effective approach to messaging.

If you're interested in staying ahead of the curve on the latest political developments, this episode is a must-listen. Join the conversation and hear the guest's insightful analysis on the current state of politics and what it means for the future. Listen to the full episode to hear more about the White House Press Secretary role, the Democratic Party's challenges, and the importance of effective communication in politics.

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California Spent Billions on High-Speed Rail... But Forgot the Trains Aug 14, 2026

Show notes

California's high-speed rail project is facing yet another funding challenge, with a new report raising questions about how the state will secure more money. The project is expected to run out of funding by December 2027, and its scope has been reduced to a shortened version that doesn't even go to Merced or Bakersfield. The Inspector General's Office has found that the project's current plan is not cost-effective, and the state's politicians seem to be in denial about its prospects.

The speaker discusses the project's many issues, including its high cost, lack of a reliable funding source, and the fact that it's been plagued by delays and mismanagement. They also touch on the topic of rent control, highlighting the case of a slumlord in Oakland who's been sued by the city for neglecting to maintain his apartment building's elevators and other amenities. The speaker expresses frustration with the city's handling of animal welfare issues, particularly on Skid Row, where animal abuse is rampant.

The conversation also delves into the world of politics, with the speaker criticizing the city's mayoral candidates for their lack of action on these issues. They highlight the work of animal advocate Joey Tuccio, who's been documenting the abuse on Skid Row, and the fact that the city's current mayor, Karen Bass, has promised to address the issue but hasn't taken meaningful action.

If you're interested in learning more about these important issues and hearing the speaker's unfiltered thoughts, tune in to this episode to hear the full conversation.

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Spencer Pratt in the Briefing Room? Trump’s Wildest Idea Yet Aug 14, 2026

Show notes

The possibility of Spencer Pratt becoming the next White House Press Secretary has the internet buzzing. This episode, the speaker discusses the pros and cons of this potential appointment, weighing the benefits of Pratt's charisma and media savvy against the challenges of navigating the high-pressure world of Washington D.C.

The conversation touches on Pratt's background in reality TV and social media, as well as his experience in California politics. The speaker notes that Pratt's ability to connect with a wide audience and his willingness to speak his mind could be assets in the role of Press Secretary. However, they also express concerns about Pratt's lack of traditional Washington experience and the potential for him to be seen as a polarizing figure.

The discussion also delves into the current state of California politics, with the speaker highlighting the need for fresh perspectives and bold action to address the state's many challenges. They argue that Pratt's outsider status could be an advantage in bringing about real change, but also acknowledge the risks of his appointment being seen as a publicity stunt.

If you're interested in hearing more about the potential benefits and drawbacks of Spencer Pratt as Press Secretary, tune in to this episode to hear the full discussion.

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Scott Wiener’s AI Stunt Just Blew Up In His Face Aug 12, 2026

Show notes

In a shocking turn of events, a California congressional candidate's campaign has been rocked by a scandal involving an AI chatbot that mocked her accent and made racist and sexist comments. The chatbot, created by her opponent Scott Wiener, was meant to highlight her "obstructionist record" but ended up backfiring in a big way. This episode, we dive into the details of this bizarre incident and explore the implications of using AI in politics.

The conversation gets heated as the candidate, Connie Chan, defends herself against the accusations, while her opponent's team tries to spin the situation. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has announced that it will no longer fund LA's homeless programs, citing waste and corruption. We discuss the implications of this move and how it might affect the city's efforts to address its homelessness crisis.

The episode also touches on the challenges faced by small business owners in Oakland, who are struggling to keep their convenience stores safe from repeated robberies. The owner of one such store shares his story and the difficulties he faces in keeping his business afloat despite the constant threats.

If you want to hear more about these stories and the conversations that unfold, tune in to this episode to hear the full discussion and get a deeper understanding of the issues at play.

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Jim Lacy: Why Gavin Newsom Just Embraced the DSA Aug 12, 2026

Show notes

This episode of the podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the latest developments in California politics. The conversation with Jim Lacy, author of the book "Taxafornia" is a fascinating exploration of the state's current state of affairs. From the rising crime rates and homelessness crisis to the economy's struggles and the impact of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) on the state's politics, this episode covers it all.

The speaker delves into the world of California politics, discussing the challenges facing the state and the potential solutions. With the DSA gaining momentum, the conversation turns to the implications of their rise and the potential consequences for the state's future. The speaker also touches on the topic of the California Fair Plan, which is set to increase insurance rates for homeowners by nearly 30%. This is just one of the many issues facing the state, and the speaker provides valuable insights into the complexities of California's politics.

The conversation also covers the High Speed Rail project, which is facing significant delays and funding issues. The speaker discusses the project's history and the reasons behind its struggles, including the lack of transparency and accountability. With the project's future uncertain, this episode provides a timely and informative look at the state of California's infrastructure.

If you're interested in staying up-to-date on the latest developments in California politics, this episode is a must-listen. Join the speaker as they explore the complexities of the state's politics and discuss the potential solutions to its many challenges.

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What Nancy Pelosi REALLY Told Joe Biden About His Cognitive Test Aug 12, 2026

Show notes

In a shocking revelation, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi dropped a bombshell about her alleged involvement in convincing Joe Biden to drop out of the 2024 presidential race. This episode dives into the details of their conversation, where Pelosi claims she "put a horse's head in Grampy Joe's bed" to imply he should step down. But what's the real story behind this dramatic claim? Tune in to hear the speaker's explosive comments and the host's witty reactions.

This episode is a wild ride through the world of politics, where nothing is as it seems. From Nancy Pelosi's alleged manipulation of Joe Biden to the latest news on California's gubernatorial election, this episode covers it all. The speaker shares their thoughts on the current state of politics, including the rise of the DSA in San Francisco and the challenges of getting more women into Congress. With a healthy dose of humor and a dash of skepticism, the host breaks down the latest news and trends in politics.

The conversation also touches on the topic of utility costs in California, where a new proposal has been put forward to provide free electricity for a select few. But is this plan as brilliant as it sounds, or is it just a case of a candidate not thinking things through? The host isn't afraid to speak their mind and share their thoughts on the proposal, and the results are hilarious.

If you want to hear more of the speaker's thoughts on politics and the latest news, tune in to this episode. With their unique blend of humor and insight, the host breaks down the complexities of politics and makes it accessible to everyone. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready to dive into the world of politics with this episode.

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The Brutal Truth About LA’s Drug Crisis | Heather Mac Donald Aug 11, 2026

Show notes

In a shocking conversation, Heather Mac Donald, author of "When Race Trump's Merit," joins the show to discuss the state of homelessness in Los Angeles and the city's misguided approach to addressing the issue. The numbers are staggering: despite a record amount of money being spent on homeless services, the number of people living on the streets has actually increased. The city's leaders are quick to blame the federal government and the state government for cuts in funds, but the reality is that the problem is a result of public officials' decisions to allow street vagrancy and neglect the needs of law-abiding citizens.

This episode delves into the world of homelessness, where the lines between reality and fiction are blurred. The speaker and Heather Mac Donald discuss the root causes of the problem, including the permissive attitude towards drugs and the glorification of vagrancy in popular culture. They also touch on the idea that many politicians are more interested in maintaining the status quo and protecting their own interests than in finding real solutions to the crisis.

The conversation also covers the topic of street takeovers, where groups of people block off streets and engage in reckless behavior, often with little to no consequences. The speaker and Heather MacDonald discuss the need for a zero-tolerance approach to these incidents and the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions.

If you're interested in learning more about the state of homelessness in Los Angeles and the city's misguided approach to addressing the issue, tune in to this episode to hear Heather Mac Donald's insightful perspective and the speaker's thought-provoking analysis.

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