09 Will California Bring the Unsexy Back? (With Dan Walters)

California pays more and receives less and less from DC. Could independence—or just grown-up governance—fix this imbalance?

Summary: California's relationship with the federal government is reaching a critical juncture. Esteemed political journalist Dan Walters joins Greg to discuss CalExit, the growing frustration with federal tax inequities, and the stark contrast between California’s progressive policies and Washington's increasingly (deep breath) regressive stances. But what if the biggest threat to California’s future isn’t DC—or even Donald Trump? What if California can’t but help continuing to ignore the unsexy basics of governing?

Walters calls for a reality check: more attention to budgets, infrastructure, housing, and water—and less to political theatrics. He makes the case that California has the means to solve its problems but lacks the will. Along the way, we explore the myth of West Coast exceptionalism, the impact of population stagnation and corporate flight, and the potential parallels between California today and the decline of Detroit.

✔️The practical and political realities of governing in California
✔️The persistent drag of housing, water, and energy challenges

✔️Why 'West Coast Exceptionalism' may be more myth than model

✔️Why MAGA may be gaining a strangle-hold on the national electoral map

✔️ Ezra Klein’s "abundance" critique and Dan’s response

✔️ Early analysis of the 2026 CA gubernatorial race (Kamala: will she or won’t she?)

Guest Bio: Dan Walters is one of California’s most respected political journalists, known for his insightful analysis on California's complex relationship with federal politics. Currently with CalMatters, Walters has spent decades dissecting California’s political landscape, providing critical context for understanding the state’s challenges and opportunities. With over 9000 columns to his name, he’s a veteran voice unafraid to challenge conventional wisdom.

📲 Pacific Time is making good trouble asking questions about the future of the West Coast on Substack, Instagram, Facebook, and BlueSky. Chime in, share feedback, and offer ideas on perspectives we need to include.

Listen:

🎧 Follow, share, and leave a review. Pacific Time Podcast is on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and many other platforms. 

New episodes most Wednesdays at 6a – just in time for your sunrise walk, drive to the beach, or bike commute to work. Or save it up for your chill time in the coffeeshop or puttering around the garden. Pairs nicely with Sunset Magazine and a Corona in the hammock or adirondack chair. Whenever you listen, talk it over with neighbors, and let me know what you think.

Thanks for being together in Pacific Time. Keep asking the ‘what if?’ questions about the future of the West Coast.