Episode Details

California's November election is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in years. Mark Simon and Bob Marks are joined by political scientist Dr. Melissa Michelson of Menlo College and veteran political consultant Don Cecil for an in-depth discussion of the issues, ballot measures, and political dynamics that could reshape California—and influence national politics.

The conversation explores voter dissatisfaction, the rise of Democratic Socialists, the future of the Democratic Party, the controversial billionaire tax, voter ID proposals, local tax measures, California's gubernatorial race, San Mateo County politics, artificial intelligence, data centers, public transit funding, and the broader political uncertainty facing the nation.

Whether you're following California politics closely or simply want to understand the forces shaping the next election, this episode provides valuable insight from two experienced political observers.
Subscribe for more conversations on California politics, national issues, and the people shaping both.

The Game is hosted by Mark Simon and Bob Marks and produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com, and YourTechMakeover.com.

You can see more information about The Game at TheGamePeninsula.com.

• (00:00) - – Welcome back to The Game
• (00:26) - – Setting the stage for California's November election
• (01:31) - – The mood of California voters
• (03:53) - – Is democratic socialism becoming mainstream?
• (06:16) - – Can Democratic Socialists energize new voters?
• (07:36) - – Is the Democratic establishment changing?
• (09:14) - – Proposition 40: California's billionaire tax
• (13:59) - – Labor unions divided over ballot measures
• (16:03) - – Why California still loves ballot propositions
• (18:01) - – The Founding Fathers and direct democracy
• (20:09) - – Proposition 39 and voter ID requirements
• (22:15) - – Election integrity and voter confidence
• (26:18) - – Proposition 43 and local tax measures
• (30:52) - – Is there really a governor's race?
• (34:45) - – San Mateo County Board of Supervisors race
• (43:15) - – AI, higher education, and data centers
• (48:20) - – Regional transit tax and the future of public transportation
• (52:06) - – National politics, international uncertainty, and what to watch before November
• (54:28) - – Closing thoughts