California is not a theory. It’s a test case.
As Gavin Newsom enters his eighth year as governor, California has become the most unaffordable state in the lower 48—and it didn’t happen by accident.
In this episode of So, Does It Matter?, Jon Fleischman walks through nine specific policy decisions made or expanded under Newsom that have driven up the cost of living for Californians. From gasoline and electricity to climate mandates and regulatory costs, these policies translate directly into higher monthly bills for families and businesses.
This conversation matters beyond California. Newsom is already traveling the country, positioning himself as a national alternative. If voters want to know how he governs, they don’t need campaign speeches—they can look at the results in California.
Jon Fleischman is an independent voice in California politics—conservative, but not owned by anyone. Calling balls and strikes without fear or favor.
In this episode:
- Why California is now the least affordable state in the country
- How climate and energy policies raise gas and electricity prices
- Why many of these costs are locked in for decades
- How Sacramento policy decisions are passed directly to consumers
- Why California is the real-world test case for national leadership
What is So, Does It Matter? on CA Politics?
California is by far the largest state in the country. What happens here affects the country and the world. What happens here, from big cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Jose, to the breadbasket of the Central Valley, is consequential. This podcast is a feature of the extensive www.SoDoesItMatter.com Substack Newsletter (sign up for free). This is where longtime California conservative strategist Jon Fleischman features audio commentary, mainly in the form of interviews with people of consequence in California politics or policy.
Jon Fleischman is a former Executive Director of the California Republican Party and a veteran of hundreds of political campaigns. He is a frequent voice on cable shows, in California newspapers, and on podcasts, discussing a wide range of topics, but mostly...California politics!