In this episode ofThe Hector Mike Experience: Common Sense in an Uncommon World, hosts Hector and Mike dissect the flurry of executive orders signed during President Donald Trump’s initial weeks back in office.

They begin by examining the rapid policy reversals—from ending federal DEI programs to declaring a national energy emergency—that have shifted federal governance's tone and substance. With every pen stroke, Trump has signaled his “America First” approach, prompting swift and often polarized responses across the political spectrum.

Hector and Mike next explore Trump’s trip to Los Angeles in the wake of devastating wildfires. Completely with an impromptu town-hall-style press conference, the visit offered a glimpse into the President’s direct, hands-on approach. Local officials, including Mayor Karen Bass, found themselves challenged by Trump’s insistence on rapid rebuilding, mainly when attention turned to a water reservoir left unrepaired for nearly a year.

Shifting to immigration, the hosts discuss the stepped-up enforcement actions, with ICE making high-profile arrests of individuals involved in serious crimes. While supporters view these operations as overdue, critics worry about potential overreach and the human impact of rapid removals.

The episode closes with California’s attempt to “Trump-proof” itself through proposed legal funds and service grants for immigrants. Newsom administration officials face sharp questioning over whether the money might aid those with criminal records—revealing the complexities of balancing local priorities with looming federal challenges.

Links: Trump Proofing CA:https://www.kcra.com/article/california-trump-proofing-proposals-immigration/63579583

Los Angeles Times: This Reservoir Was Built To Save Pacific Palisades. It Was Empty When The Flames Came:https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-01-22/why-has-a-reservoir-in-palisades-stood-empty-for-a-year

In this episode, Hector and Larry look at the drama behind California’s legislative session, including how the reparations bill was allowed to die on the Assembly floor. They expose the internal chaos within both the Democratic and Black caucuses, revealing the confusion and tension that erupted during those final, frantic hours. With leadership in disarray, the rushed process forced critical legislation to be debated in just 30 seconds per speaker, leading to internal fights, shouting matches, and, ultimately, leaving California taxpayers as the real losers. The conversation also heats up as they tackle Governor Gavin Newsom’s last-minute push for massive oil and gas regulations. Hector and Larry explore whether this was simply political maneuvering, potentially setting the stage for Newsom's ambitions on a national level, possibly a presidential bid. If you're interested in California politics, legislative processes, or the broader impact of rushed decisions, this conversation is for you. Don't miss the back-and-forth as Hector and Larry uncover the realities behind the political scene in the Golden State!

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In this episode of the Hector Mike Experience, Hector and Mike discuss the 2024 presidential election and the latest in California politics. They explore a controversial bill that could provide $150,000 in down payment assistance to illegal immigrants, sparking debates about state priorities and the burden on taxpayers.

They also discuss the Democratic Presidential candidate Kamala Harris, who has been frequently changing her stance on major issues like the border wall, fracking, and the Biden/Harris electric vehicle mandate, which she now opposes. What’s surprising is that these shifts haven’t happened over years, but within the last 40 days, even on issues where she cast deciding votes earlier this year.

Hector and Mike question whether the media will continue to give Harris a pass or finally hold her accountable for these flip-flops. They also discuss her upcoming interview, noting that she’s bringing in Tim Walz as backup, which raises concerns about her preparedness to handle the pressures of the presidency.

Is Harris being overly protected by her campaign and the media, and what does it mean for her candidacy? Hector and Mike ask: When will the media start asking the tough questions or will they continue to shield her?

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