Inside California's Political Tremors w/Kelly Calkin

California is often viewed as politically unique, but its elections can reveal trends that eventually reach the rest of the country.In this episode of Across the Aisle, John Ashford is joined by veteran California political strategist and public affairs expert Kelly Calkin to unpack one of the most unpredictable and consequential California primaries in recent memory. From the emergence of Javier Becerra as the Democratic frontrunner to the collapse of several high-profile campaigns, they explore how a chaotic election season reshaped the race for governor and what it may signal for the future of politics in the nation's most populous state.The conversation examines California's deep Democratic advantage, voter turnout challenges, the rise and fall of major candidates, the increasingly anti-establishment mood among voters, and the battles that will define November's elections. Along the way, Ashford and Calkin discuss Los Angeles politics, the influence of Nancy Pelosi, Gavin Newsom's national ambitions, and why political observers across the country should be paying close attention to California.Whether you're a political professional, policy watcher, or simply interested in understanding where American politics may be headed next, this episode provides an insider's look at the forces shaping the Golden State.Topics discussed:California's 2026 gubernatorial raceJavier Becerra vs. Steve HiltonThe collapse of several major Democratic campaignsVoter turnout and enthusiasm trendsLos Angeles mayoral politicsThe future of Gavin Newsom and national Democratic politicsWhat California's elections may tell us about the countryAcross the Aisle is produced by The Hawthorn Group and features conversations with policymakers, strategists, journalists, and thought leaders examining the issues shaping public affairs and American politics.