KQED's Forum

Alex Hall, a KQED reporter specializing in Oakland's political landscape, dives into the recent recall of Mayor Sheng Thao, marking a historic moment for the city. He discusses the community's sentiments leading to the recall and outlines the procedural steps for the special election ahead. Hall highlights the concerns over local governance mismanagement and the pressing need for effective leadership to tackle critical issues like crime and homelessness. Oaklanders voice their hopes for a new mayor who prioritizes community engagement and urban improvements.

Katherine Rundell, author of "Vanishing Treasures: A Bestiary of Extraordinary Endangered Creatures," shares her passion for some of the world’s most unique and imperiled animals. She discusses wombats with their cube-shaped poop and the incredible resilience of the American wood frog, which can freeze solid to survive winter. Rundell also addresses the emotional bonds we share with wildlife and the myths surrounding animal conservation. This inspiring dialogue emphasizes the urgency of protecting the extraordinary creatures that inhabit our planet.

Tom Temprano, Managing Director at Equality California, discusses the landscape for trans rights in a politically uncertain climate. Honey Mahogany, Director of Transgender Initiatives in San Francisco, highlights the local challenges faced by trans youth, such as homelessness. Kate Redburn, an expert in gender and sexuality law, elaborates on federal protections under threat. Together, they explore the implications of a potential Trump presidency on access to gender-affirming care and advocate for continued vigilance and support within the community.

Elizabeth Dwoskin, Silicon Valley correspondent for The Washington Post, discusses the evolving relationship between tech leaders and Donald Trump, especially with figures like Elon Musk now in his corner. Kelsey Piper from Vox explores how a Trump administration could reshape AI and cryptocurrency regulations. Jeremy Owens of MarketWatch delves into the economic implications of these political shifts, highlighting the potential for hands-off approaches to tech oversight. The conversation captures an electrifying landscape where tech and politics collide.

Lisa Friedman, a climate and politics reporter for the New York Times, Jesse Jenkins, a Princeton engineering professor, and Ethan Elkind, director of the Climate Program at UC Berkeley, dive into the implications of a potential second Trump administration for climate policy. They discuss Trump's previous dismantling of climate regulations, California's proactive stance amidst federal changes, and the crucial role of grassroots activism. The conversation highlights the importance of economic incentives and local initiatives in the ongoing battle against climate change.

Political strategist Mike Madrid, co-founder of The Lincoln Project and author of "The Latino Century," dives into the surprising rise of Latino support for Trump, noting a 14-point increase since 2020. He argues that Democrats face a reckoning, as their messaging alienates working-class and Latino voters. Madrid explores the diversity within Latino political identities, the shift towards Republican candidates, and emphasizes the need for Democrats to adapt their strategies to reconnect with this crucial demographic amid changing cultural landscapes.

Marisa Lagos, a KQED politics correspondent, and Tom Hudson, host of Florida Roundup, dive into the contrasting political landscapes of California and Florida. They tackle the multifaceted nature of criminal justice reform, highlighting the balance between progressive policies and public safety. The discussion also contrasts unique challenges like housing affordability and climate change impacts. They emphasize the importance of public dialogue in bridging diverse perspectives and understanding the issues affecting both states.

In this discussion, Melanie Mason, senior political correspondent for Politico, highlights the looming challenges a second Trump presidency poses for California. Alexei Koseff from CalMatters offers insights on the state's probable resistance and strategy to safeguard progressive values. Anita Chabria from the Los Angeles Times emphasizes the need for creative legislative responses, while Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis shares the state’s commitment to defend individual freedoms against potential federal encroachments. The collective focus is on maintaining Californian ideals amidst a politically charged atmosphere.

James Fallows, a seasoned journalist and former national correspondent for The Atlantic, shares his insights on recent electoral dynamics. He discusses how Kamala Harris and Donald Trump's campaign performances did not align with the election's outcome. Fallows emphasizes the shifting perceptions towards local engagement over national identity. He also reflects on economic challenges reminiscent of past crises, the impact of misinformation on voter behavior, and California's importance in navigating future political narratives.

Scott Shafer, a senior editor at KQED specializing in California politics, and Marisa Lagos, a seasoned politics correspondent, team up with Andrew Prokop from Vox to dissect the latest election outcomes. They dive into Adam Schiff's Senate victory and the adoption of same-sex marriage rights, while also contrasting national voter sentiments as Trump secures wins amid economic turmoil. The discussion highlights growing voter dissatisfaction with the Biden administration and explores the implications of a potential second Trump term on California's policies and societal dynamics.