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Political Breakdown

Join hosts Scott Shafer and Marisa Lagos as they unpack the day in politics with a California perspective.

Podcast · By KQED · English · US · Official site

Indexed episodes, last 90 days
29
Latest publication
Sep 11, 2026
Audience
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Earliest in this view
Jul 7, 2026

Latest episodes

  1. Episode · Sep 11, 2026

    Pelosi's Shadow Hangs Over The Race to Replace Her (opens the original)

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    Rep. Nancy Pelosi is retiring from Congress, but as State Senator Scott Wiener and San Francisco Supervisor Connie Chan compete for her seat, Pelosi continues to draw the spotlight. Marisa, Scott and Guy break down the latest accusations, alliances and drama in the increasingly heated race. Check out Political Breakdown’s weekly newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  2. Episode · Sep 10, 2026

    Ben Allen Wants to Take on The Insurance Industry for You (opens the original)

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    For the first time, voters in California will decide between two Democrats for insurance commissioner, a powerful position that regulates insurance rates and acts as a consumer advocate. The race comes as the state faces increasingly destructive wildfires, rising energy prices and a volatile insurance market. Marisa sits down with state Sen. Ben Allen, who said his experience in Sacramento makes him the best candidate for the job. Tune in next week to hear from the other candidate, former San Fr

  3. Episode · Sep 8, 2026

    AIPAC Is Spending Millions to Reshape the Democratic Party. Is It Working? (opens the original)

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    The American Israel Public Affairs Committee, also known as AIPAC, has emerged as one of the biggest spenders in this year’s midterm elections. The pro-Israel lobbying group isn’t just weighing in on swing districts. It’s jumping in on Democrat-on-Democrat races as well, including the East Bay special election to replace former Rep. Eric Swalwell. Despite spending millions against Aisha Wahab, AIPAC failed to keep her from winning last month’s contest. Marisa talks to David Dayen, executive edit

  4. Episode · Sep 4, 2026

    Newsom's Final Months: A Failed Deal and Regulating AI (opens the original)

    Episode notes · Critical tone

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    Governor Gavin Newsom failed to strike a deal on wildfire liability with lawmakers in the state legislature this week after months of negotiations that pitted California utilities against insurance companies. Marisa and Guy break down how the deal collapsed and what it means for Newsom as he enters his final months in office. Then, they turn to the few dozen bill on the governor’s desk aiming to regulate the state’s burgeoning Artificial Intelligence industry. The sector has cozied up to politic

  5. Episode · Sep 3, 2026

    Steve Hilton Supports Mail-In Voting, Remains Confident in California's Election Security (opens the original)

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    Republican candidate for governor Steve Hilton is campaigning to break Democrats’ iron clad grip on state governance. It’s a steep challenge, but Hilton remains bullish that his message of change can win over independent and Democratic voters while his conservative credentials and endorsement by President Donald Trump help him maintain Republican support. He joins Marisa in studio to discuss his views on inequality in the state, how he would regulate AI and the backlash to data centers. He split

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