The California Conversation

California's new hate speech law, AB 1803, may sound like a routine workplace training update. But what happens when the state gets to define what counts as hate? We're breaking down the implications for free speech, religious liberty, and every Californian's freedom to express their beliefs. Check out more content related to California Legislation here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI6CiPPZ...

The 2026 midterms delivered a devastating night for conservatives – in California and across the country. From statewide races and ballot propositions to congressional losses and the national political landscape, the results reveal just how much ground conservatives have lost. In this special episode, I break down the election results, examine the changing makeup of the electorate, and challenge t...

What happens when we do everything we can to change California, and California still doesn't change? Even when elections disappoint us, our responsibility to speak truth, expose wrongdoing, and stand up for what is right doesn't disappear. After the midterm elections, I explore why Christians and conservatives should remain engaged in politics in our deeply liberal state, even when we don't see th...

The election is finally here!! In this 2026 California Midterm Election Voter Guide, I break down why I'm supporting Steve Hilton for governor and walk through the California ballot propositions so you can make an informed decision at the polls. We'll cover the candidates, the policies, and what's at stake for California's future. VOTING RESOURCES: Trusted Voter Guides Statewide and by County: htt...

California’s November ballot includes two propositions that could change how our elections work. This week, we break down Propositions 4 and 5, explain what they would actually do, and explore why these seemingly technical changes matter for voter power, government accountability, and the future of California elections. Here’s what you need to know before you vote! Check out more content related t...

We have forgotten that taxation is a serious power over the lives and livelihoods of the people in California. Every election we see numerous propositions placed on the ballot that will increase our taxes – and majority of the time, we pass them! It is looking no different with this election. Today, we're looking at two California propositions that bring questions of taxation and government spendi...

Welcome to the first edition of After Golden Hour , a little break from our usual California politics programming! Grab a cup of tea and join me as we yap about the federal government's new AI-powered website, James Talarico's very creative interpretation of the Bible, and the possibility of Kamala Harris running for president again in 2028. Because sometimes you just need a break from California...

Why has something as basic as verifying your identity to vote become so controversial? And should California voters pass Proposition 39 this election? This week, I break down the arguments against voter ID, and how ideology and “toxic empathy” can turn a neutral standard into a political controversy. Check out more content related to California’s 2026 Midterm Election here: https://youtube.com/pla...

California’s housing crisis is getting worse, and CEQA is a major part of the debate. But this election we have a proposition on our ballots to change that! So, what would Proposition 45 actually do? This week, I’m breaking down CEQA, the proposed reforms, and what they could mean for housing in California. Check out more content related to California’s 2026 Midterm Election here: https://youtube....

California calls itself the most “surrogacy-friendly” state in the nation. But what happens when the rights of intended parents collide with a surrogate’s bodily autonomy – and the life of the child caught in the middle? The McKenna West case exposes some deeply troubling contradictions in California’s approach to surrogacy, abortion, parenthood, and the rights of children. This week I’m breaking...

California’s “temporary” taxes aren’t so temporary. Proposition 3 would make California’s higher income-tax rates on the state’s highest earners permanent. This week, we’re diving into what Prop. 3 does, why California’s tax-and-spend approach isn’t working, and how you should vote this election! I also share new research from the Hoover Institution challenging the promises behind California’s pro...

Breaking news: California is regulating more of your life. I know – it’s a huge shock! But apparently, regulating your gas-powered car wasn't enough…now our state is coming for your tires. Starting in 2029, the state will begin imposing new efficiency standards on replacement tires. The government says you'll save money, use less fuel, and reduce emissions. But we've heard California make promises...

Healthcare is one of the most convoluted and confusing topics – especially when it comes to government programs and intervention in medical institutions. This November, we have two propositions on our ballot - Propositions 38 & 44 - that take very different approaches to different issues in healthcare. The question isn't simply whether the goal is good, but whether the policy being proposed is...

Housing affordability is a real problem in California. So, the question becomes: how do we make things better? This election, we have two propositions on our ballot that are being proposed as solutions to this crisis. Propositions 1 and 37 both claim to address high housing costs and promise real solutions. But, do they deliver on these promises? Check out more content related to California’s 2026...

If you thought California politics couldn't get any more ridiculous than it already it, I have a story for you. Because today, we're taking a break from ballot propositions and are heading about halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, to a tiny little city in the San Joaquin Valley called Avenal. I promise you, this is not a story I could have made up if I tried. Check out more content rela...

California’s wealth tax debate isn’t over. This week, we break down Propositions 41 and 42 – two measures designed to increase government transparency, limit the expansion of taxation, and respond to Proposition 40’s proposed wealth tax. What do these propositions actually do, and how can they shape California’s economic future? Check out more content related to the 2026 Midterm Election, here: ht...

What is California's Proposition 40, and what questions does it raise beyond just another tax policy? This week, we examine the proposed billionaire wealth tax through the lenses of wealth creation, excellence, human flourishing, and Christian ethics. We break down ideas that shape the debate, and address why they matter for Californians considering Proposition 40! Check out more content related t...

This week in California politics, we have a governor trying to strip power from an office before a Republican can take it over, a bill designed to keep convicted sex offenders out of public office that somehow ended up creating exceptions for criminals, and yes – government officials inspecting the trash you throw away! Check out more content related to California politics, here: https://youtube.c...

American patriotism is at an all-time low, and California is ground zero for this crisis. But this Fourth of July, we have a choice. We can continue down the path that has made patriotism controversial, apologizing for love of country rather than celebrating it. Or we can reclaim a healthier, more honest patriotism that recognizes both our imperfections and our extraordinary blessings, both in our...

Wildfire prevention is one of the biggest issues in California politics. Every year, after another devastating fire season, our leaders promise they'll clear the brush, improve our water supply, and cut through the red tape standing in the way of critical projects. But promises mean nothing if they never become reality. Despite years of promises from our Governor, California has completed less tha...

California has spent hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars rolling out iPads to prison inmates across the state. Officials say the program is about rehabilitation, education, and keeping inmates connected to family, but a recent investigation raises serious questions about how these devices are actually being used. At its core, this isn’t just a story about technology in prisons. It’s about how...

The dramatic shift in California’s primary results over the past few days has reignited a debate Californians seem to have after every election: What exactly is happening with our vote-counting process? And perhaps most importantly…can Californians trust the results of our elections? Check out more content related to the 2026 election cycle here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI6CiPPZnCnupqFp...

California's primary results are in…and they are shocking! From the Governor's race to key statewide offices and competitive House districts, Republicans are outperforming expectations across the state. This week, we break down the biggest wins, surprising upsets, what the results reveal about California voters, and why November could be one of the most important elections in years. Check out more...

California’s primary election is THIS Tuesday — and this weekend is your last chance to prepare to vote. In this bonus episode, I break down 5 important things every California voter needs to know before heading to the polls, from why your vote matters to key down-ballot races and trusted voter resources. Below are links to official California voting resources so you can quickly find your voting c...

California voters: this episode is for you. You do not have to love Republicans, agree with MAGA, or abandon your values to admit that California is not working for millions of people right now. Today I make a sincere appeal to Democrat and independent voters to reconsider the policies, and leadership, that have shaped California for decades. We talk affordability, homelessness, crime, government...