078: $556 Billion in the Dark, Broke in a Boom, and the Gas They Banned

078: $556 Billion in the Dark, Broke in a Boom, and the Gas They Banned

June 2, 2026 · 1h 56m · Episode 78

About this episode

The episode discusses financial mismanagement in California, focusing on CalPERS, the state budget, and fuel policies.

Three stories, one pattern: more of your money, less accountability. CalPERS — a $556 billion pension — plays politics, finishes near last in the nation, and won't let retirees see the books. The state budget posts a record revenue boom and still can't balance without raiding $20B in reserves and raising taxes. And gas hits $6 while California keeps banning a cheaper fuel 49 other states allow. Plus the 6-Shooter: one voter and two ballots, Newsom's 100% tax, and a veteran killed over a yard sign.

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: CalPERS

Places: California

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the California Streaming podcast page.