In this episode, Hector and Larry look at the drama behind California’s legislative session, including how the reparations bill was allowed to die on the Assembly floor. They expose the internal chaos within both the Democratic and Black caucuses, revealing the confusion and tension that erupted during those final, frantic hours. With leadership in disarray, the rushed process forced critical legislation to be debated in just 30 seconds per speaker, leading to internal fights, shouting matches, and, ultimately, leaving California taxpayers as the real losers. The conversation also heats up as they tackle Governor Gavin Newsom’s last-minute push for massive oil and gas regulations. Hector and Larry explore whether this was simply political maneuvering, potentially setting the stage for Newsom's ambitions on a national level, possibly a presidential bid. If you're interested in California politics, legislative processes, or the broader impact of rushed decisions, this conversation is for you. Don't miss the back-and-forth as Hector and Larry uncover the realities behind the political scene in the Golden State!

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In this episode of the Hector Mike Experience, Hector and Mike discuss the 2024 presidential election and the latest in California politics. They explore a controversial bill that could provide $150,000 in down payment assistance to illegal immigrants, sparking debates about state priorities and the burden on taxpayers.

They also discuss the Democratic Presidential candidate Kamala Harris, who has been frequently changing her stance on major issues like the border wall, fracking, and the Biden/Harris electric vehicle mandate, which she now opposes. What’s surprising is that these shifts haven’t happened over years, but within the last 40 days, even on issues where she cast deciding votes earlier this year.

Hector and Mike question whether the media will continue to give Harris a pass or finally hold her accountable for these flip-flops. They also discuss her upcoming interview, noting that she’s bringing in Tim Walz as backup, which raises concerns about her preparedness to handle the pressures of the presidency.

Is Harris being overly protected by her campaign and the media, and what does it mean for her candidacy? Hector and Mike ask: When will the media start asking the tough questions or will they continue to shield her?

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In this podcast segment, Hector and Larry discuss the alarming impact of social media and constant phone use on mental health. Both admit they're deeply addicted to their devices, with Hector comparing the experience to being trapped like Neo in The Matrix, always plugged in and unable to break free.

They recognize a growing and concerning problem in society, where social media is taking a toll on the mental health of the younger generation and older people like them. Despite being aware of the negative effects, they find it incredibly difficult to disconnect from their phones and social media. The conversation stresses the urgent need for people to find a healthier balance and take proactive steps to disconnect in order to protect their mental well-being. They also mention how schools are beginning to limit phone usage to address this crisis. However, both Hector and Larry admit that their work demands make it hard to disconnect, adding to the challenge of achieving a healthier balance in their lives.

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Twitter: @hectormbarajas

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The Heated Debate Over California’s Homeownership Program

In the latest podcast episode, Larry Venus and Hector dive into the chaotic final days of the legislative session, raising concerns about the ruling party's ability to bypass established rules, such as the 72-hour in-print bill amendments, which poses significant transparency issues.

They focus on the controversial bill AB 1840, which allows undocumented immigrants to participate in a taxpayer-funded down payment program for home purchases, offering up to $150,000.

When the program was first released the funding dried up in just 11 days! https://www.kqed.org/news/11976218/california-will-help-fund-the-down-payment-for-your-first-house-heres-how-to-apply

Larry and Hector explore the political and social implications of providing such benefits while the state struggles to meet the needs of its legal residents. They ask: Why provide this program when there is a long line of legal residents who need the program? Why make the wait more difficult for those who have roots in this state and nation?

Hector and Larry also discuss California's homelessness crisis, and the growing frustration from residents and businesses over the encampments and the lack of effective solutions. They question whether Californians will continue to support higher taxes for homeless programs or if public patience is wearing thin. Have Californians hit the break point?

Finally, they discuss the 50% increase in auto insurance rates in California and its impact on residents, particularly those on fixed incomes. They question why rates are so high and explore media reports suggesting that auto insurance rates could rise another 50% by the end of the year.

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Hector and Mike pull no punches, exposing the blatant media bias that has become too common. Some reporters show a disturbing willingness to look the other way to favor their preferred issues and candidates.

While everyone may hold some form of bias, journalists have a duty to balance their perspectives with an unwavering commitment to presenting the facts, allowing readers to form their own opinions. Yet today, we see a growing trend where bias is not just present but blatant.

This goes beyond presidential elections, extending to critical issues like agriculture, oil and gas, and the economy. Some of these stories are crafted to promote preconceived positions, undermining the trust and credibility that journalism is supposed to uphold.

We respect you when you challenge statements and expose the truth, but such scrutiny must be applied equally, regardless of political or policy leanings. Unfortunately, an increasing number of journalists seem to be making their biases all too clear, further eroding public trust in the media. Don’t rig the narrative. As the presidential election approaches, or as the legislative sessions near the end, hold all sides accountable with the same rigor. Hector and Mike also share examples from their own professional experiences as communicators, highlighting the bias they've encountered firsthand. Side Note: This troubling trend further damages the reputation of journalism and discredits the hard work of countless reporters who dedicate their lives to uncovering the truth, no matter how complex the subject or powerful the players involved. Over the past 20 years, we’ve faced our share of tough media interviews and have always respected the difficult work journalists do. However, we expect them to be as tough on us as they are on the other side.

With the 2024 Olympics now behind us, Hector Barajas and Larry Venus shifted gears to chat about the upcoming NFL season, the game-changing impact of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) in college football, and how the Olympics brought Americans together to cheer on the nation’s top athletes. They had a good laugh agreeing that, while stars like Simone Biles and "the guy from Turkey" dazzled on the world stage, the true MVP of the Paris games might just have been Snoop Dogg. The rapper seemed everywhere, from commentary to unexpected appearances, solidifying his place as the ultimate Olympic hype man. Ig: @amplify360inc Twitter: @hectormbarajas Facebook: @amplify360 LinkedIn: @hectormbarajas

As the legislative session enters its final weeks, Hector and Larry dive into the governor's unexpected shift in tackling California's homelessness crisis. The governor now threatens to withhold funding from cities that fail to clean up their communities, starkly contrasting his earlier approach. Hector and Larry speculate whether this move signals a bid for a cabinet position should Vice President Harris win in November or if it’s merely a PR stunt. The governor's state-paid photographer earns $200,000 annually and captures images designed to portray him as tough and compassionate. The legislative session's frantic pace is underway as lawmakers rush to address critical issues affecting every Californian. With over 1,300 bills still on the table, the race is on to pass these pieces of legislation before the August 31st deadline, a process that will significantly shape the state's future. Ig: @amplify360inc Twitter: @hectormbarajas Facebook: @amplify360 LinkedIn: @hectormbarajas

Join hosts Hector and Mike in their latest episode of "The Hector and Mike Experience: Common Sense in an Uncommon World." This week, they dive into the whirlwind of recent political events, offering insights and analysis on the following hot topics: - Assassination Attempt Fallout: The immediate and long-term effects on the political landscape. - Biden's Presidential Campaign: Despite internal party pressure, Joe Biden is determined to stay in the race. What does this mean for the Democratic Party? - Republican National Convention Highlights: A review of the significant moments, including Donald Trump's choice for vice president and the unique focus on ordinary Americans sharing their stories. - Presidential Endorsements and Changes: The surprising resignation of the current president and his endorsement of Kamala Harris. How is Harris positioning herself for the Democratic nomination, and what challenges lie ahead? - Financial Implications: The controversy surrounding the transfer of Biden's campaign funds to Harris's campaign and its potential impact on the upcoming election. Tune in as Hector and Mike untangle the complexities of these developments, providing their trademark common-sense perspective on the political chaos. Don't miss this episode packed with thoughtful discussion and expert commentary.