This episode of the podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in California politics. The state is facing some of its biggest challenges yet, from rising crime rates to a crippling economy, and the homelessness crisis shows no signs of slowing down. But amidst all the chaos, one thing is clear: the state needs a leader who can step up to the plate and make tough decisions. In this episode, our guest John Thomas, a Republican political strategist, shares his insights on the upcoming gubernatorial election and the candidates vying for the top spot.

The conversation touches on the strategies of the main contenders, including Javier Becerra, the Democratic candidate who's been keeping a low profile since the primary. Thomas breaks down Becerra's approach, which involves relying on his team to set the agenda and major influences to dictate the state's direction. He also discusses the challenges California faces, from devastating natural disasters to crippling economic woes, and how a governor who's not up to the task could spell disaster for the state.

Thomas also weighs in on the L.A. mayor's race, where Nithya Raman is currently leading in the polls. He shares his analysis of the latest poll numbers and what they mean for the outcome of the election. Additionally, he discusses the billionaire tax, Prop 40, which has sparked controversy among Californians. Our guest shares his thoughts on the measure and why it's not as straightforward as it seems.

If you're interested in staying up-to-date on the latest California politics and want to hear more from our expert guest, tune in to this episode to hear the full conversation.