Pod Save America It's One Ballroom, Donald, How Much Could It Cost?
144 snips
May 8, 2026 
Tom Steyer, billionaire philanthropist and former presidential candidate now running for California governor. He discusses California’s housing crisis and permitting bottlenecks. He talks healthcare reform ambitions without detailing specifics. He addresses taxes, business competitiveness, and protecting the state’s film industry.
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Rubio Gains From The Land Of The Unserious
- Marco Rubio's recent briefing performance creates a 'boomlet' because he looks serious compared to chaotic administration figures, not because he's exceptionally strong.
- Pfeiffer and Favreau emphasize Rubio benefits from contrast with other cabinet members and from non‑MAGA donor enthusiasm.
Trump's Primary Muscle Pressures Redistricting
- Trump's primary threats remain potent in low‑turnout GOP primaries, enabling him to influence state legislative and redistricting fights.
- The hosts note Indiana shows Trump can spend millions to unseat incumbents who defy him, pressuring other states to gerrymander.
Focus Resources On State Legislatures Now
- Do prioritize winning state legislative races and the 2026 federal elections to build capacity for anti‑gerrymandering reforms.
- Pfeiffer urges investing time, money, and resources in down‑ballot state contests and blue states' strategic responses.