The Culture War Podcast with Tim Pool THE GOP IS TAKING CALIFORNIA
May 11, 2026
Surprising Republican momentum in California politics and how open primary rules can create two-Republican runoffs. A viral outsider’s campaign using AI ads and an attack ad that backfires. Heated debate over homelessness, policing, and enforcement plans in Los Angeles. Redistricting, partisan strategy, and national vote-compact effects that could reshape races.
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California Voters Rally Behind Outsider Conservatives
- California shows rising support for conservative outsiders as voters react to mismanagement and visible homelessness and crime in L.A.
- Tim Pool cites Spencer Pratt and Steve Hilton polling gains plus local outrage over housing policies as evidence of a shift.
Trump Variable Could Shift Midterm Outcomes
- The Trump 'election integrity' effort could materially change midterm outcomes by mobilizing volunteers and legal tactics.
- Tim Pool frames it as a wildcard that may advantage Republicans nationwide, including California.
Democrats Push Rule Change To Avoid Two Republicans
- Democrats moved to propose returning to party-specific primaries because jungle primaries risk producing two Republicans in November.
- Tim Pool explains how Eric Swalwell's downfall reshuffled Democratic votes and elevated Republicans in top-two polling.