Inside the Issues: The Podcast
212 episodes - English - Latest episode: 2 months ago -In the official companion podcast to Spectrum News 1's nightly show, “Inside The Issues”, political anchor Alex Cohen takes listeners on a deep dive inside the world of SoCal politics. From the personalities, the scandals, and what happens behind closed doors, Alex and political science professor Sara Sadhwani cover it all. Join every Friday for a spirited discussion that's as informative as it is fun.
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Episodes
Conservative or progressive: What the election could tell us about LA politics
February 16, 2024 18:55 - 27 minutes - 49.9 MBCalifornia'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 ca...
The race for 2nd place: The fight to become California's next senator
February 09, 2024 15:40 - 33 minutes - 62 MBRep. 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 l...
What's really happening at the border?
February 02, 2024 18:04 - 23 minutes - 44.2 MBImmigration 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 ...
Could Gov. Newsom replace President Biden as the presidential nominee?
January 26, 2024 16:28 - 30 minutes - 56.2 MBRepublican 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 r...
Transparency in LA city politics with Councilmember Monica Rodriguez
January 19, 2024 18:16 - 29 minutes - 53.9 MBAs "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...
Newsom's budget: The good, the bad and the ugly
January 12, 2024 16:20 - 33 minutes - 61.2 MBGov. 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 befor...
The battle over the ballot: Democrats differ on Trump strategy
January 05, 2024 16:04 - 29 minutes - 53.9 MBA 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...
An 'ambitious politician' lands new role in the Assembly
December 29, 2023 15:55 - 22 minutes - 41.7 MB"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.
California attorney general's fight against climate change, Trump and his future political aspirations
December 21, 2023 18:30 - 15 minutes - 27.7 MBAs 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 too...
Hunter Biden makes his case — on the steps of Congress
December 15, 2023 18:39 - 24 minutes - 45.1 MBMalibu'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...
Kevin McCarthy’s departure: What it means for Congress, California
December 08, 2023 18:07 - 21 minutes - 39 MBKevin 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 cur...
Newsom-DeSantis debate upends system of tradition
December 01, 2023 23:39 - 37 minutes - 69.1 MB"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 Da...
California Democratic Convention started optimistically and ended in chaos
November 24, 2023 17:13 - 28 minutes - 51.7 MBAs 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 ...
The fallout of the 10 Freeway shutdown in LA
November 17, 2023 19:11 - 32 minutes - 60.7 MBWhile 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 e...
Buckle up: 'Topsy-turvy' events shake up California politics
November 10, 2023 17:54 - 27 minutes - 50.8 MBBuckle 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 intensif...
Councilman's aide drops antisemitic, sexist social media bombs
November 03, 2023 15:20 - 28 minutes - 52.6 MBThe 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 Schume...
What will the new House speaker mean for SoCal representatives?
October 26, 2023 22:45 - 25 minutes - 47.6 MBMore 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. ...
War in the Middle East, Congress turmoil hit SoCal politics
October 20, 2023 15:57 - 30 minutes - 56.8 MBIt'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 Kamal...
The battle in Israel divides SoCal politicians
October 13, 2023 14:16 - 37 minutes - 68.7 MBThe 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....
The Feinstein effect: How do you follow a legend?
October 06, 2023 16:32 - 28 minutes - 52.9 MBChaos 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 nativ...
Who won the 2nd Republican debate? Some say it was Gavin Newsom
September 29, 2023 17:34 - 28 minutes - 52.1 MBHot 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 Librar...
You down with NPP? Republican strategist Anne Hyde Dunsmore on the impact of NPP voters
September 22, 2023 08:30 - 34 minutes - 63.3 MBOn 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 ...
Revenge or public service? Alex Villanueva is running for county supervisor
September 15, 2023 08:30 - 27 minutes - 50.7 MBFormer 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 lear...
Optimism in the war against homelessness in LA
September 07, 2023 17:10 - 25 minutes - 47.7 MBLos 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 lea...
Optimism in the war against homelessness in LA
September 07, 2023 17:10Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass had a meeting of the minds this week at City Hall about homelessness. Along with other city majors, 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 lea...
Mark Ridley-Thomas indignant, but still convicted
August 31, 2023 16:28 - 25 minutes - 47.3 MBThis 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 ...
Is a debate not a debate without the front-runner?
August 24, 2023 19:15 - 26 minutes - 48 MBThe 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’ s...
John Eastman fights disbarment and disgrace
August 17, 2023 17:45 - 24 minutes - 44.4 MBThere 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 develo...
Curren Price: Will the council play nice or will he pay a price?
August 10, 2023 17:36 - 19 minutes - 36.3 MBLos 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 ...
The anti-mask, anti-vax RFK Jr. storms into SoCal
August 03, 2023 15:37 - 23 minutes - 42.9 MBSome 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 a...
Strikes seize LA. And so do UFOs?
July 27, 2023 15:37 - 22 minutes - 41.7 MBWhile 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? ...
A summer of discontent settles over SoCal
July 20, 2023 16:31 - 22 minutes - 41.9 MBTrouble 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. A...
Can LA solve its homeless problem, or is it the next Portland?
July 13, 2023 17:26 - 22 minutes - 42.4 MBHomelessness 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 th...
Mike Bonin's incredible political journey
July 06, 2023 17:35 - 22 minutes - 42.2 MB"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.
$32B state budget deficit? Anthony Rendon to the rescue
June 29, 2023 13:06 - 16 minutes - 15.2 MBIt 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 acc...
Are Black politicians 'prey' for racist investigators?
June 22, 2023 15:00 - 18 minutes - 34 MBDays 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 B...
Paying the price: LA City Councilman Curren Price faces slew of criminal charges
June 15, 2023 16:12 - 22 minutes - 41.2 MBIt'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 w...
Pride or prejudice? Glendale parents erupt amid LGBTQ+ proposal
June 08, 2023 15:42 - 24 minutes - 44.6 MBGlendale 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. G...
U.S. Senate hopeful Adam Schiff unveils new brand
June 01, 2023 16:41 - 23 minutes - 43.6 MB"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'...
Will the LA Redistricting Committee be independent?
May 25, 2023 16:16 - 27 minutes - 50.7 MBThe 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 Euniss...
Gloria Molina's political impact isn't going anywhere
May 18, 2023 17:53 - 21 minutes - 40.4 MBThis 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 ...
The return of Sen. Dianne Feinstein
May 11, 2023 15:33 - 20 minutes - 37.7 MBAfter 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, in...
Climate warning: Is SoCal prepared for mountain melt-off?
May 04, 2023 17:47 - 18 minutes - 33.8 MBA 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...
Loyalty, thy name is Joe Biden. Will it pay off for Newsom?
April 27, 2023 18:11 - 25 minutes - 46.7 MBIt'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 att...
Mayor Bass pushes for a new LA in State of the City, budget
April 20, 2023 16:24 - 21 minutes - 40.2 MBLos 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 t...
Messy politics: Sen. Feinstein faces resignation calls; Council District 10 gets new leader
April 13, 2023 18:36 - 21 minutes - 39.2 MBIt 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 Santi...
Mark Ridley-Thomas: Criminal, folk hero or both?
April 06, 2023 16:39 - 26 minutes - 48.5 MB"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 poli...
Mark Ridley-Thomas' trial by fire
March 30, 2023 16:41 - 21 minutes - 39.9 MBThe 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...
Mayor Karen Bass' first 100 days: Hope or hype?
March 23, 2023 16:59 - 21 minutes - 38.8 MBThis 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...
Gov. Newsom’s unique statewide tour
March 16, 2023 17:42 - 23 minutes - 43.1 MBGov. 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 re...