Hasan Minhaj Doesn't Know Senator Alex Padilla: How Democrats Can Win in 2026
Dec 10, 2025
In a candid conversation, Senator Alex Padilla, California's first Latino senator and advocate for voting rights, shares his frustrations over Senate dynamics during government shutdowns. He critiques Democratic approaches to immigration and the need for agenda-setting leadership. Padilla recounts a dramatic confrontation at a DHS event and emphasizes the importance of community response to ICE raids. Additionally, he discusses California’s innovative policies on housing and diversity, promising a hopeful path forward for Democrats.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
What The Shutdown Was Really About
- Democrats fought to protect Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, not to 'shut down' the government for health care alone.
- Republicans held the majority and chose not to negotiate, causing a 40+ day fight that ultimately ended without guarantees.
Consider Leadership Change Proactively
- If leadership is failing, caucus members can force a leadership vote and must consider alternatives now.
- Padilla urges internal conversation and readiness to change leaders if it strengthens the party's fight.
Redistricting As A Defensive Strategy
- Prop 50 was a voter-approved redistricting move to protect representation against national gerrymandering efforts.
- Padilla frames it as defensive politics to counter efforts to rig districts and suppress voting access.
