SacTown Talks

#41 - Kristin Olsen

Episode Summary

Kristin Olsen is a member of the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors and the former leader of the Republican caucus in the California State Assembly. Her recent column "GOP is dead in California. A new way must rise" made waves for its incisive analysis of the maladies of the GOP in California. Olsen argues that the old GOP brand of opportunity for all - regardless of creed or color - has given way to extremist rhetoric, racial resentment, and a toxic national brand associated with President Trump. Join us as we talk about the increasingly polarized two party system, how moderates in the middle - of both parties - often feel left out, and together, we reflect on governance, the California Legislature, and how to craft a new path forward.

Episode Notes

Kristin Olsen is a member of the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors and the former leader of the Republican caucus in the California State Assembly.

Her recent column "GOP is dead in California. A new way must rise" made waves for its incisive analysis of the maladies of the GOP in California. Olsen argues that the old GOP brand of opportunity for all - regardless of creed or color - has given way to extremist rhetoric, racial resentment, and a toxic national brand associated with President Trump.

Join us as we talk about the increasingly polarized two party system, how moderates in the middle - of both parties - often feel left out, and together, we reflect on governance, the California Legislature, and how to craft a new path forward.

Shownotes

2:00 - The death of the Republican party in California

7:13 - Crafting a new path forward

12:30 - Identity politics, cultural marxism, fascist & populist rhetoric
12:00 - Nobody actually wants to eliminate ICE

19:29 - Talking politics over Thanksgiving dinner

24:00 - Leading the Assembly Republican Caucus

33:05 - KO's take on the CAGOP chair Race

36:00- What's next for KO?