The Game

2026 Midterms: Voters, Taxes, AI and California Politics

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 17:45:11 -0700

With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, Mark Simon and Bob Marks take a deep look at the political landscape both nationally and here in California.

The conversation begins with a remembrance of September 11, 2001, on the 25th anniversary of the attacks, before turning to the November elections. Mark and Bob examine the fight for control of the House and Senate, the races Republicans need to win, the role Donald Trump may play in the midterms, and whether a broader wave of voter dissatisfaction could reshape the political landscape.

In California, they discuss the governor's race, the insurance commissioner contest and several major statewide ballot measures, including the proposed billionaire tax, voter ID, CEQA reform and a measure involving taxes on higher-income Californians.

They also explore the rapidly growing political controversy surrounding AI and data centers. As California becomes an increasingly important center for artificial intelligence, Mark and Bob consider the concerns about water, electricity, technology companies and the potential risks of increasingly powerful AI systems.

The discussion moves to local politics in San Mateo County, where they examine uncontested city council and school board races, development and growth in San Mateo, and the unusually large number of local tax and revenue measures on the November ballot.

Finally, Mark and Bob consider the larger question facing politicians of both parties: What do voters actually want? After years of dramatic political swings, the answer may be surprisingly simple — would somebody please get something done?

(00:00) - Welcome and the 2026 Election

(00:46) - Remembering September 11

(05:28) - The 2026 Midterm Landscape

(06:21) - Ballots and Redistricting

(07:12) - Trump's Political Numbers

(08:09) - The House of Representatives

(09:50) - The Senate

(10:22) - Republican Strategy

(11:23) - Texas and Michigan

(13:43) - Reading the Polls

(14:36) - The Texas Democratic Mirage

(15:27) - Trump's Role in the Midterms

(16:49) - California's Congressional Races

(17:52) - The California Governor's Race

(20:34) - California Statewide Races

(20:59) - Proposition 40 and the Billionaire Tax

(23:31) - Voter ID and Proposition 39

(24:25) - Proposition 45 and CEQA

(25:37) - Proposition 3 and Taxes

(26:18) - AI, Data Centers and Politics

(27:41) - The Threat of Superintelligence

(30:20) - AI and the Future of Work

(31:51) - Local Elections

(32:23) - Uncontested Local Races

(33:48) - Growth in San Mateo

(34:15) - Local Taxes and Revenue Measures

(36:06) - Voter Skepticism About Taxes

(37:10) - Lessons from Proposition 13

(38:22) - The Growing Tax Debate

(40:22) - The Mood of the Voters

(41:16) - Results vs. Political Warfare

(42:24) - Affordability and Inflation

(43:30) - Trump's $5,000 Promise

(44:30) - Iran and the Election

(46:29) - Looking Ahead to November

Subscribe for more conversations on California politics, national issues, and the people shaping both.

The Game is hosted by Mark Simon and Bob Marks and produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com and YourTechMakeover.com.

You can see more information about The Game at TheGamePeninsula.com.

Kevin Mullin on the Midterms, Democratic Divisions, AI and the Future of Politics

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 13:15:52 -0700

.S. Representative Kevin Mullin returns to The Game with Mark Simon and Bob Marks for a wide-ranging conversation about the 2026 midterm elections and the future of the Democratic Party.

Mullin discusses Democrats' chances of taking back the House, the party's focus on affordability, health care and the economy, and the growing influence of national issues in congressional races. He also addresses the rise of progressive and Democratic Socialist candidates, the tension between progressives and moderates, the role of grassroots organizing and the enormous sums being spent by super PACs.

The conversation moves into the larger generational shift taking place in American politics, whether Democrats could be experiencing their own version of the Tea Party revolt, the possibility of a fundamental restructuring of the two-party system, and whether impeachment would actually be an effective response to the Trump administration.

Mullin also talks about artificial intelligence and its potential impact on jobs and wealth inequality, Social Security reform, the national debt and California's proposed billionaire tax.

Finally, the conversation turns to Bay Area sports, including the Giants, Warriors, 49ers and Valkyries, before exploring how money, NIL and conference realignment are transforming college athletics.

Subscribe for more conversations on California politics, national issues, and the people shaping both.

The Game is hosted by Mark Simon and Bob Marks and produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com and YourTechMakeover.com. You can see more information about The Game at TheGamePeninsula.com.

(00:00) - — The 2026 Midterms and Democratic Prospects
(03:48) - — The Democratic Message: Affordability and the Economy
(10:16) - — Socialism, DSA Candidates and Swing Districts
(15:05) - — Campaigns, Super PACs and Big Money
(21:20) - — The Democratic Generational Revolt
(28:41) - — Could Democrats Follow the Tea Party Path?
(31:36) - — Is the Two-Party System Breaking Apart?
(36:05) - — Impeachment, Oversight and the Trump Administration
(38:20) - — AI, Jobs and the Future of the Economy
(47:01) - — Social Security Reform
(49:08) - — The National Debt and Fiscal Reform
(52:45) - — California's Billionaire Tax
(56:10) - — Bay Area Sports
(01:00:15) - — Money and the Changing Business of Sports
(01:03:01) - — The Giants, Pride Night and Bay Area Identity
(01:06:31) - — NIL, College Sports and Conference Chaos
(01:09:12) - — Closing

California’s November Election: Billionaire Taxes, Democratic Socialists & the Ballot Measures That Could Change Everything

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 15:56:53 -0700

California's November election is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in years. Mark Simon and Bob Marks are joined by political scientist Dr. Melissa Michelson of Menlo College and veteran political consultant Don Cecil for an in-depth discussion of the issues, ballot measures, and political dynamics that could reshape California—and influence national politics.

The conversation explores voter dissatisfaction, the rise of Democratic Socialists, the future of the Democratic Party, the controversial billionaire tax, voter ID proposals, local tax measures, California's gubernatorial race, San Mateo County politics, artificial intelligence, data centers, public transit funding, and the broader political uncertainty facing the nation.

Whether you're following California politics closely or simply want to understand the forces shaping the next election, this episode provides valuable insight from two experienced political observers.
Subscribe for more conversations on California politics, national issues, and the people shaping both.

The Game is hosted by Mark Simon and Bob Marks and produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com, and YourTechMakeover.com.

You can see more information about The Game at TheGamePeninsula.com.

(00:00) - – Welcome back to The Game
(00:26) - – Setting the stage for California's November election
(01:31) - – The mood of California voters
(03:53) - – Is democratic socialism becoming mainstream?
(06:16) - – Can Democratic Socialists energize new voters?
(07:36) - – Is the Democratic establishment changing?
(09:14) - – Proposition 40: California's billionaire tax
(13:59) - – Labor unions divided over ballot measures
(16:03) - – Why California still loves ballot propositions
(18:01) - – The Founding Fathers and direct democracy
(20:09) - – Proposition 39 and voter ID requirements
(22:15) - – Election integrity and voter confidence
(26:18) - – Proposition 43 and local tax measures
(30:52) - – Is there really a governor's race?
(34:45) - – San Mateo County Board of Supervisors race
(43:15) - – AI, higher education, and data centers
(48:20) - – Regional transit tax and the future of public transportation
(52:06) - – National politics, international uncertainty, and what to watch before November
(54:28) - – Closing thoughts

California’s Election Aftermath: Trust, Turnout, and the Road to November

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:41:49 -0700

California's June primary election is in the books, but the political debates are just getting started.

Mark Simon and Bob Marks are joined by former Belmont mayor and political analyst Charles Stone for a wide-ranging discussion on the aftermath of California's primary election, the controversy surrounding vote counting timelines, public trust in elections, and what the results may signal for the 2026 midterms.

The conversation explores whether California's lengthy vote-counting process is undermining confidence in elections, how Democrats and Republicans are positioning themselves heading into November, and what lessons can be learned from key statewide races. The panel also examines affordability, taxes, voter behavior, messaging, and the evolving political landscape in California and across the country.

Locally, the discussion turns to San Mateo County races, surprising election outcomes, tax measures, city council contests, and what voters can expect in the months ahead.

Topics Include:

California's vote-counting process and election trust
Trump, election skepticism, and public perception
Potential Supreme Court impacts on voting rules
Midterm election outlook for Democrats and Republicans
California governor's race analysis
Affordability and tax measures
San Mateo County election results
The power of name recognition in local politics
District elections and upcoming city council races
What to watch heading into November

Subscribe for more conversations on California politics, national issues, and the people shaping both.

The Game is hosted by Mark Simon and Bob Marks and produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com and YourTechMakeover.com.

You can see more information about The Game at TheGamePeninsula.com.

(00:00) - Introduction & Election Recap Overview
(01:03) - Why Does California Take So Long to Count Votes?
(04:01) - Public Trust, Election Perception & Vote-by-Mail Debate
(08:23) - Is California's Election System Actually Secure?
(10:29) - Perception vs. Reality in Modern Politics
(12:15) - What's Really Broken: Elections or Public Trust?
(15:14) - Supreme Court, Election Day Rules & Future Voting Changes
(17:15) - How Vote Counting Could Affect the Midterms
(20:59) - What Did California's Primary Results Tell Us?
(22:28) - Messaging, Candidates & The Governor's Race
(25:35) - Affordability, Taxes & Voter Concerns
(26:25) - Why Democrats Could Gain Ground in November
(27:14) - Running Against Trump: Effective Strategy or Mistake?
(29:33) - Finding the Right Democratic Message and Messenger
(32:08) - National Politics, Party Identity & Candidate Branding
(37:48) - California's Jungle Primary: Success or Failure?
(38:43) - San Mateo County Election Results & Key Takeaways
(40:22) - Tax Measures, Voter Fatigue & Local Politics
(42:02) - Superintendent Race Analysis
(43:16) - Looking Ahead to Peninsula City Council Elections
(45:36) - David Canepa's Victory & Future Political Implications
(49:12) - Sheriff Recall Fallout & Supervisor Elections
(50:33) - Regional Transit Funding & Ballot Measure Challenges
(51:15) - Why November Could Be a Watershed Election
(51:30) - Final Thoughts & Wrap-Up

California Election Preview 2026: Governor’s Race, Trump’s Impact, Taxes, AI & San Mateo County’s Future

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 29 May 2026 12:58:01 -0700

Days before California's 2026 primary, Mark Simon and Bob Marks convene a power panel to break down everything on the ballot. Congressman Kevin Mullin, San Mateo Daily Journal Editor Jon Mays, and Central Labor Council Executive Director Julie Lind join the show for a wide-ranging conversation on the governor's race, voter anger, low turnout, the billionaire tax, Bay Area transit funding, AI and the future of work, and key local races in San Mateo County.

Is anger driving this election, or is it fear? Who survives the governor's primary after Swalwell's dramatic exit? Can Tom Steyer buy his way into the top two? And what does San Mateo County look like a decade from now?

Guests:

Congressman Kevin Mullin (CA-15)
Jon Mays, Editor, San Mateo Daily Journal
Julie Lind, Executive Director, San Mateo County Central Labor Council

Topics covered:

Voter anger, fear, and low primary turnout
California governor's race: Becerra vs. Steyer vs. Hilton
The Swalwell fallout and its impact on the Democratic field
Redistricting, the Voting Rights Act, and political polarization
The California billionaire wealth tax
Bay Area regional transit funding and the messaging problem
AI, automation, and the future of work in San Mateo County
San Mateo County Assessor's race: Canepa vs. Irizarry
Final predictions from the panel

Subscribe for more conversations on California politics, national issues, and the people shaping both.

Hosted by Mark Simon and Bob Marks.

Produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com and YourTechMakeover.com.

For more information, visit TheGamePeninsula.com.

(00:00) - Introduction and panel introductions
(01:26) - Is anger driving the 2026 election?
(04:28) - What voters are saying about the governor’s race
(06:06) - Why Steve Hilton, Xavier Becerra, and other candidates are gaining attention
(08:46) - Low voter turnout and why ballots remain uncast
(11:42) - Strategic voting and late-breaking decisions
(16:38) - The biggest challenges facing California’s next governor
(19:13) - Debate over California’s top-two primary system
(23:39) - Why major Democrats stayed out of the governor’s race
(26:13) - Can Democrats retake the House in 2026?
(29:07) - Redistricting battles and political polarization
(33:18) - Tax measures, transit funding, and voter fatigue
(40:21) - The billionaire tax debate
(50:22) - What San Mateo County will look like in 10–20 years
(51:40) - AI, technology, and the future workforce
(56:46) - Labor’s concerns about automation and economic inequality
(01:01:06) - Election predictions: governor’s race and assessor contest
(01:04:11) - Post-panel analysis and final thoughts
(01:10:13) - Closing remarks

California Governor’s Race Heats Up | Midterms, Billionaire Tax & San Mateo County Elections

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 22 May 2026 16:03:00 -0700

With just days remaining before California voters head to the polls, Mark Simon and Bob Marks break down the increasingly unpredictable race for governor, the latest polling trends, and what could determine who advances to November. They examine the campaigns of Antonio Villaraigosa, Tom Steyer, Katie Porter, and other contenders, along with the impact of money, endorsements, and voter turnout.

The conversation also explores California’s biggest challenges facing the next governor—including AI regulation, insurance markets, wildfire policy, water resources, and the state’s ongoing relationship with the Trump administration.

Mark and Bob then shift to national politics, discussing President Trump’s declining approval ratings, congressional tensions, the Iran conflict, inflation, gas prices, and what the early signs suggest for the upcoming midterm elections.

Closer to home, they analyze several important San Mateo County races, including contests for Board of Supervisors, Assessor-Clerk-Recorder-Elections Chief, Superintendent of Schools, and Board of Equalization. They also discuss the proposed billionaire tax, transit funding challenges, local tax measures, housing development debates, and what voters should watch heading into November.

Subscribe for more conversations on California politics, national issues, and the people shaping both.

The Game is hosted by Mark Simon and Bob Marks and produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com and YourTechMakeover.com.

You can see more information about The Game at TheGamePeninsula.com.

#CaliforniaPolitics #Election2026 #GovernorRace #Trump #Midterms #SanMateoCounty #LocalPolitics #PublicPolicy #TheGamePodcast #PoliticalAnalysis

(00:00) - Welcome to The Game
(00:30) - California governor’s race enters final stretch
(01:41) - Polling, campaign spending, and Tom Steyer’s challenge
(05:18) - Why the next governor may face unexpected issues
(06:15) - AI regulation, insurance, wildfires, and California’s future
(07:27) - California Democrats and dealing with the Trump administration
(08:05) - Trump, Congress, Iran, and growing Republican divisions
(09:35) - Could California’s next governor serve only one term?
(11:21) - Debate over California’s Top-Two Primary system
(12:38) - Billionaire tax and regional transit tax proposals
(13:27) - BART, Caltrain, and the politics of transit funding
(15:17) - Will California voters support a billionaire tax?
(16:20) - Tax measures, inflation, and voter frustration
(19:33) - Board of Equalization race: Sally Lieber vs. John Pimentel
(22:10) - Trump’s approval ratings and the 2026 midterms
(24:05) - Iran, inflation, gas prices, and economic pressures
(26:07) - Redistricting and the battle for Congress
(28:14) - San Mateo County Supervisor races examined
(31:19) - Noelia Corzo and the write-in challenge
(34:08) - Superintendent of Schools race: Camacho vs. Bonini
(34:45) - Assessor-Clerk-Recorder-Elections Chief race analysis
(38:10) - Endorsements, campaign spending, and voter awareness
(42:01) - Looking ahead to November’s local elections
(43:23) - The importance of local political coverage
(44:20) - Final thoughts and election preview next week
(45:19) - Closing remarks

Jon Mays on Local Journalism, AI Ethics, Historic Preservation & California Politics

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 08 May 2026 10:27:56 -0700

Jon Mays, editor of the San Mateo Daily Journal, joins Mark Simon and Bob Marks for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of local journalism, AI in media, political endorsements, education policy, historic preservation, and the changing political landscape in San Mateo County and California.

Jon discusses how the Daily Journal approaches endorsements during election season, why the paper rejects AI-generated submissions, and the challenges local newspapers face in the social media era. The conversation also explores school cell phone bans, California’s gubernatorial race, housing and historic preservation debates, and how local communities are evolving politically and culturally.

This episode offers a thoughtful look at the role of journalism in democracy and the tensions between growth, technology, and preserving community identity.

Subscribe for more conversations on California politics, national issues, and the people shaping both.

The Game is hosted by Mark Simon and Bob Marks and produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com and YourTechMakeover.com.

You can see more information about The Game at TheGamePeninsula.com.

Time Breaks

(00:00) - – Introduction and Jon Mays joins the show
(00:45) - – San Mateo County assessor race and newspaper endorsements
(02:36) - – Reactions to endorsements and public criticism
(05:05) - – Why local newspapers still make endorsements
(07:24) - – Do endorsements actually influence voters?
(08:54) - – AI-generated letters and Daily Journal policy
(10:18) - – Why Jon Mays opposes AI-written submissions
(11:57) - – AI in journalism and the Fresno Bee controversy
(14:57) - – School cell phone bans and the value of writing
(18:50) - – The state of local journalism and social media challenges
(21:35) - – Sales tax proposals and public frustration
(24:22) - – San Mateo historic preservation debate explained
(32:00) - – How San Mateo County has changed over the years
(35:02) - – Diversity and change in local politics
(38:38) - – The hardest part of being a journalist
(40:40) - – California governor’s race discussion begins
(41:34) - – Republicans, Democrats, and California’s political reality
(46:16) - – Why Xavier Becerra may emerge as the Democratic frontrunner
(49:50) - – Closing thoughts and wrap-up

Joe Cotchett on Taking on Elon Musk, AI Dangers, and the Future of American Democracy

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 14:42:58 -0700

Legendary trial attorney Joe Cotchett joins The Game for a wide-ranging, no-holds-barred conversation on law, politics, and the future of the country.
Cotchett breaks down his firm’s landmark $2.5+ billion securities fraud verdict against Elon Musk, explains why it’s a rare case of driving stock prices down, and what it means moving forward.
The conversation then turns to the darker side of AI and social media, including rising teen suicide rates, scams targeting seniors, and the legal battle over Section 230.
From California politics and Gavin Newsom’s future to the 2028 presidential race, Cotchett shares insider perspectives on candidates, the Democratic bench, and what it will take to win back power.
He also reflects on decades of landmark civil rights cases, why he never ran for office, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.
🔥 A powerful conversation about justice, power, and the fight for democracy.
⏱️ Time Chapters

(00:00) - – Intro & Joe Cotchett joins the show
(00:01) - – Lawsuit vs Elon Musk explained
(00:03) - – Why this securities fraud case is historic
(00:05) - – What Musk was like on the stand
(00:07) - – The social media & AI addiction lawsuits
(00:09) - – AI scams, deepfakes, and rising dangers
(00:10) - – Section 230 and the legal battle ahead
(00:11) - – Shocking real-world case involving online deception
(00:13) - – Why Cotchett never ran for office
(00:15) - – Civil rights cases that shaped his career
(00:18) - – California governor race breakdown
(00:21) - – State crises: fires, homelessness, and policy failures
(00:25) - – Billionaire tax debate
(00:27) - – What Democrats are getting wrong
(00:28) - – Gavin Newsom’s presidential potential
(00:31) - – 2028 contenders & “sleepers” to watch
(00:37) - – Did Democrats miss their chance in 2024?
(00:43) - – Midterm outlook: can Democrats take the House & Senate?
(00:45) - – DOJ, Trump, and the state of democracy
(00:49) - – Should the Supreme Court be expanded?
(00:52) - – What keeps Cotchett going
(00:55) - – His legacy and message to young lawyers
(00:57) - – Closing thoughts

Subscribe for more conversations on California politics, national issues, and the people shaping both.

The Game is hosted by Mark Simon and Bob Marks and produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com and YourTechMakeover.com.

You can see more information about The Game at TheGamePeninsula.com.

War, Gas Prices & Midterms: Is Trump on the Brink? | March Political Roundup

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:57:14 -0700

Mark Simon and Bob Marks wrap up a packed month of interviews and dive deeper into the biggest political stories shaping the moment.

From rising gas prices and escalating tensions with Iran to the looming midterms and shifting voter sentiment, the conversation explores what success actually looks like in U.S. foreign policy—and whether the current strategy is sustainable.

They also break down:

The political risks facing President Trump
How gas prices could reshape the election
Growing distrust in elections and the SAVE Act debate
California’s chaotic governor’s race
Local San Mateo County battles heating up
And a lighter note: Opening Day and optimism for the Giants

It’s a wide-ranging, candid discussion on politics, policy, and the unpredictability of what comes next.

⏱️ Time Breaks (Chapters)

00:00 – Intro & March recap

00:31 – A month of major interviews

00:53 – Iran conflict & rising gas prices

01:41 – U.S. policy on Iran & nuclear threats

03:20 – What does “success” even look like?

05:18 – Military options & Strait of Hormuz

07:23 – Global economy & oil disruption

09:29 – Gas prices and political fallout

10:53 – Trump’s possible endgame

12:39 – What has actually been accomplished?

15:02 – Midterms outlook & political risks

16:18 – “No Kings” protests & voter sentiment

18:04 – Will protests impact elections?

19:12 – Trump, health, and political stability

21:09 – Election trust & voting concerns

23:17 – Vote-by-mail debate & Supreme Court

26:06 – California governor’s race chaos

27:54 – Strategy, money & campaign dynamics

29:24 – Why candidates stay in the race

33:09 – Why voters aren’t paying attention yet

33:41 – Local San Mateo County races

38:22 – Development battles & community tensions

40:10 – Social media & political polarization

42:15 – Giants Opening Day & sports talk

46:18 – Buster Posey & rebuilding optimism

46:46 – Final thoughts & wrap-up

Subscribe for more conversations on California politics, national issues, and the people shaping both.
The Game is hosted by Mark Simon and Bob Marks and produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com and YourTechMakeover.com. You can see more information about The Game at TheGamePeninsula.com.

Congressman Kevin Mullin on the Iran War, Voting Rights, California's Wild Governor's Race & More

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 12:08:29 -0700

Congressman Kevin Mullin joins The Game for a wide-ranging conversation on the SAVE Act, voting rights, the war with Iran, Democratic strategy for the 2026 midterms, and California’s unpredictable governor’s race.

He also discusses his endorsement of Eric Swalwell, the debate over a billionaire tax, and his work to make hearing aids more affordable. After the interview, Mark Simon and Bob Marks break down Mullin’s comments and discuss the latest political fallout in California and beyond.

Time Breaks / Chapters

00:00 Intro and welcome

00:26 Congressman Kevin Mullin joins the show

00:39 Mullin on the SAVE Act and threats to voting by mail

03:02 Voter ID, access to the ballot, and democracy concerns

05:31 Georgia voting laws and whether voter ID can work

08:29 Why turnout could surge in November

11:16 What message Democrats should run on in the midterms

15:28 Iran, terrorism, and divisions inside the Democratic Party

18:03 Bob challenges Mullin on “imminent threat” and presidential war powers

19:09 Mullin on diplomacy, Congress, and international alliances

22:05 What Democrats would do if they retake the House or Senate

25:07 Town halls, activist pressure, and being in the minority

30:11 California governor’s race and the possibility of two Republicans advancing

35:57 Why Mullin endorsed Eric Swalwell for governor

40:15 Billionaire tax debate and California’s fiscal reality

45:20 Mullin on hearing loss and making hearing aids more affordable

48:37 Interview ends

49:08 Mark and Bob discuss the Cesar Chavez allegations

52:38 Postmortem on Iran, Trump, and what happens next

56:16 Final thoughts on the California governor’s race

57:05 Outro

The Game is hosted by Mark Simon and Bob Marks and produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com. You can see more information about The Game at TheGamePeninsula.com.

Rosanne Foust on San Mateo County’s Economy, Housing, Transit, AI, and the Future of Business

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:40:23 -0800

On this episode of The Game, Mark Simon and Bob Marks are joined by Rosanne Foust, President and CEO of the San Mateo County Economic Development Association, for a conversation about the economic and political future of San Mateo County.

They discuss the local economy, tech layoffs, housing affordability, workforce development, artificial intelligence, office vacancies, transit funding, and the role of major employers in shaping the region. Rosanne also offers her take on county politics, regional leadership, and how San Mateo County can continue to grow while addressing inequality and cost-of-living pressures.

In the bullpen, Mark and Bob discuss the crowded California governor’s race and what it means for the Democratic field.

Time Breaks

0:00 Intro

0:26 Rosanne Foust joins the show

1:28 San Mateo County’s economic outlook

2:42 Tech layoffs and employment trends

4:17 Cost of living and younger generations

6:51 SAMCEDA’s role in the local economy

9:41 Housing challenges and solutions

12:58 AI and the future of work

16:00 Development, density, and community pushback

20:07 Hillsdale redevelopment

22:16 Billionaire tax debate

24:26 Wealth, philanthropy, and community responsibility

30:45 Transit tax and county funding

32:25 Business concerns in San Mateo County

34:26 Prop. 13 and split roll taxes

36:23 Office vacancies and commercial real estate

37:54 The county’s political identity

40:24 Should San Mateo County have a mayor?

43:32 Bullpen: governor’s race discussion

50:54 Outro

See more at TheGamePeninsula.comProduced by Frank Bravo, Bravo IT Consulting (BravoITC.com)

How Labor Endorsements Really Work in San Mateo County — Julie Lind Explains

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 11:05:42 -0800

Mark Simon and Bob Marks are joined by Julie Lind, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the San Mateo County Central Labor Council, representing 105 unions and more than 95,000 workers and their families.

Julie explains how labor endorsements are earned, how political resources are allocated, and what labor sees as the biggest challenges facing working families in 2026 — from wages and housing costs to public budgets. The conversation also tackles artificial intelligence and automation, and how emerging technologies may reshape the workforce.

After the interview, Mark and Bob discuss the crowded California governor’s race and what it means for Democrats statewide, along with the evolving political landscape in San Mateo County.

⏱ Episode Chapters

00:00 – Opening

00:31 – Labor’s role in county politics

06:11 – Inside the endorsement process

14:43 – Campaign support from labor

22:48 – AI & automation impacts

30:58 – Governor’s race dynamics

38:15 – Post-game analysis

45:12 – Wrap-up

Rebuilding Trust in San Mateo: Sheriff Ken Binder on Culture, Accountability, and ICE Policy

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 11:25:19 -0800

Sheriff Ken Binder, appointed on November 12, 2025 as the 27th Sheriff of San Mateo County, joins The Game to talk about rebuilding leadership and culture inside the Sheriff’s Office after a turbulent year.

Bender discusses morale and resilience among staff, the staffing picture today, recruitment standards, and the importance of professionalism and consistency across the department. He also explains how internal affairs cases are handled — including what can (and can’t) be done when timelines under California’s Peace Officer Bill of Rights have expired.

The conversation expands into San Mateo County’s non-cooperation policy with ICE, how trust impacts public safety, and the Sheriff’s constitutional role in maintaining peace during demonstrations. The episode also highlights the county’s new focus on combating human trafficking, including coordination with the District Attorney’s office.

In the bullpen segment, Mark and Bob discuss the California governor’s race, Democratic field dynamics, and local campaign developments as mail-in ballots near.

Featuring: Mark Simon, Bob Marks

Guest: Sheriff Ken Binder

Produced by: Frank Bravo

The Game Is Back: 2026 Races, a New Sheriff, and a Board in Flux

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:15:02 -0800

The Game is back! After a brief hiatus, Mark Simon and Bob Marks return to break down what they missed — and what’s coming next in a fast-moving 2026 election year.

They revisit the biggest local political story of 2025: the removal of Sheriff Christina Corpus and why new Sheriff Bender may be the stabilizing leader the department needs. They also dig into the dynamics on the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors — including how trust, alliances, and personality conflicts may shape the next year.

From there, Mark and Bob discuss Mark’s recent “most influential people in the county” columns and what they reveal about a leadership transition underway — plus why emerging communities and coalitions could play a bigger role in the future.

They preview key 2026 races (including a surprisingly heated contest for County Assessor), debate whether certain offices are being politicized, and examine the charter review proposal to name the Board President the “mayor of San Mateo County.”

The episode wraps with a broader look at the governor’s race and national politics heading into the midterms — including voter trends, immigration enforcement, and why “affordability” could become the defining issue.

New shows every Friday at 10:00 AM. Learn more at thegamepeninsula.com.

Supervisor Lisa Gauthier: Sheriff Appointment Crisis, Combating Over Policing, and District Priorities

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 15:07:22 -0800

Mark Simon and Bob Marks welcome Supervisor Lisa Gauthier to discuss the demanding political landscape of San Mateo County. Supervisor Gauthier served 12 years on the East Palo Alto City Council from 2012 to 2024, including serving as mayor during the pandemic. After being elected to the Board of Supervisors in 2024, she immediately became involved in the ongoing controversy regarding former Sheriff Christina Corpus.

Supervisor Gauthier details the high-profile process to appoint a new sheriff, noting that the situation has been a "huge distraction" from necessary county work and has been "weighing heavy on everyone". She explains the Board’s decision to pursue an appointment rather than a special election, citing that an election would cost additional resources and money. Furthermore, Gauthier felt an immediate appointment was fairer, as a short-timeline election favors popular candidates who already possess resources.

The Board recently held a four-hour hearing with the applicants. Gauthier believes that two candidates show "a lot of promise": Ken Binder (the former undersheriff in Santa Clara County) and David Lazar (the assistant chief of police in San Francisco). She is looking forward to the public hearing on Monday to see how applicants handle themselves with public comments.

The qualities she seeks in the next sheriff include integrity, authenticity, accountability, and the ability to heal a fractured department. She also stresses the importance of finding a leader who understands how the jail is operating and will ensure that incarcerated individuals are protected.

Gauthier addresses specific historical issues concerning law enforcement's relationship with her constituency in East Palo Alto and North Fair Oaks, mentioning the history of "over policing". East Palo Alto became a city in 1983 specifically to gain self-determination and avoid being policed by the sheriff’s department due to heavy policing. She emphasizes the need for new police leadership to focus on community policing—officers must get out of their cars, engage with residents, and avoid judging people based on the color of their skin.

Once the sheriff issue is finalized, Supervisor Gauthier is eager to focus on top constituent priorities:

• Childcare Costs: San Mateo County has the fifth highest child care cost. When costs reach $4,000 a month, it becomes a barrier to families working.

• Immigration: District 4 has a large immigrant community, and many residents are "scared and nervous" and require assistance.

• Displacement and Homelessness: These issues remain persistent due to the high cost of living.

Additionally, Gauthier confirms she has 100% confidence in County Executive Mike Halig, noting that an investigation proved allegations made by former Sheriff Corpus against him were false. She also discusses the difficulty in setting a clear policy regarding zero cooperation with ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement).

You can see the game on TheGamePeninsula.com, on YouTube and wherever you get podcasts.

Produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com.

Election Recap: Prop 50 Landslide, the National Democratic Surge, and Congressman Kevin Mullin

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:18:53 -0800

In this episode, recorded the day after the November 2025 election, Mark and Bob are joined by U.S. Congressman Kevin Mullin to analyze the results and national political landscape.

Episode 16 dives deep into the overwhelming passage of Prop 50 in California, a single-item special election that saw an astounding 58.5% voter turnout. Congressman Mullin discusses the landslide win and the governor's vision that framed the measure as a critical defense against attacks on California by the authoritarian president. Prop 50's success, which involved mid-decade redistricting, is seen as a strong national message that Californians recognize the threats to democracy. Mullin also explains the nuance that the measure was temporary, intended to preserve the power of the non-partisan citizens commission for the next census.

Key Topics Discussed:

• National Democratic Wins: Analyzing whether the Democratic victories in Virginia, New Jersey, and other states constitute a "rebuke of Trump" or signal that "Democrats are back". Mullin argues that successful candidates, whether progressive or moderate, share a focus on affordability and kitchen table issues.

• The Government Shutdown: Examining the real-world effects of the longest government shutdown in history, particularly the impending loss of Affordable Care Act tax credits and the immediate expiration of SNAP benefits for vulnerable residents. Mullin calls out the administration for its "chaos" and providing unreliable information.

• The Redistricting Arms Race: Discussion of the "troubling trend" where 20 states are considering redistricting efforts, potentially leading to increased partisan advantage. Mullin outlines the goal for California Democrats to win all five newly redrawn seats.

• Gavin Newsom’s 2028 Prospects: Following the Prop 50 victory, the conversation shifts to Governor Newsom's rising political profile and his status as a potential frontrunner for the 2028 presidential nomination. Mullin praises Newsom as a masterful communicator and savvy politician.

• Local San Mateo Issues: The local vote by the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors to appoint a new sheriff after Sheriff Corpus was removed from office. Mullin expresses disappointment in the saga and the urgent need for a leader to stabilize the office.

Mark and Bob conclude the show reflecting on the comprehensive nature of the issues facing Congressman Mullin's job.

Find more episodes at TheGamePeninsula.com.

Produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com

Episode 15 - Measure 50, Giants Shake-Up & Local Politics | The Game Podcast

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 12:36:56 -0700

In this episode of The Game with Mark Simon and Bob Marks, we take a wide-ranging look at politics, culture, sports, and community issues shaping life on the Peninsula.

We start with Measure 50 and what it could mean for local voters, before exploring the challenges of presidential decorum and today’s cultural divide. The discussion moves to Charlie Kirk, the First Amendment, and the state of political speech, followed by a pivot into sports with the San Francisco Giants’ dismissal of Bob Melvin.

From there, we dive into the San Mateo County Sheriff’s race, the impact of district elections, and the growing struggles around housing for younger residents. Finally, we close with a candid conversation about what it really takes to run for office—discipline, likability, and relentless drive.

✨ Key themes in this episode:

Measure 50 and its implications
Politics, free speech, and the cultural divide
Giants baseball and community reactions
Local elections and district voting
Housing affordability for young people
What it takes to win in politics

Learn more at 🌐 TheGamePeninsula.com

Available on all major podcast platforms, just search The Game with Mark Simon and Bob Marks.

👤 Produced by Frank Bravo – BravoITC.com

Episode 14 - Talking San Mateo County Sheriff with local reporters

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 15:25:41 -0700

Mark Simon and Bob Marks sit down with Redwood City Pulse Editor Michelle Iracheta (RWCPulse.com) and San Mateo Daily Journal Reporter Ana Mata (SMDailyJournal.com) to talk about the latest in the San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus story. Now that the 10-day public hearing in San Mateo County Superior Court in Redwood City for her potential removal from office has concluded, we thought it was a good time to get some prospective from the news organizations that have covered this story since the start.

Produced by Frank Bravo (BravoITC.com)

Kevin Mullin

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 15:31:13 -0700

In this episode of The Game, Mark Simon sits down with Congressman Kevin Mullin (D-South San Francisco) to talk about the California gerrymandering ballot measure, his time in Washington this year and what the Democrats need to do to regain control of the House and Senate.

Bob Marks is 'on assignment'.

Produced by Frank Bravo (BravoITC.com)

San Mateo County Sheriff

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 15:53:36 -0700

Mark Simon and Bob Marks were joined by Deputy Sheriff Eliot Storch and attorney Charles Stone to talk about the current state of the San Mateo County Sheriff's office. See more information about The Game at https://www.TheGamePeninsula.comProduced by Frank Bravo (https://www.BravoITC.com)

The Game - Election Night Special - Measure A

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 05:15:07 -0800

A special live version of The Game, talking about the results of the San Mateo County Special Election, Measure A. The measure, which was a referendum on the Sheriff, is well on its way to passing based on the early results.

Mark Simon was joined by:

Jon Mays, Editor in Chief, San Mateo Daily Journal
Charles Stone, Partner, Goethals & Stone, PC and former Mayor of Belmont
Jerry Hill, Co-Chair, Committee to Recall Sheriff Corpus
Eliot Storch, Deputy Sheriff’s Association
John Whitehurst, Principal, BMWL Consulting
Julie Lind, San Mateo County Central Labor Council

Sheriff Corpus and Dan Stegink from the No on Measure A campaign were both invited to participate, but did not return our invitations. We continue to want to have them on the show and would like to make that happen in the future.

Visit TheGamePeninsula.com for more details about the show.

Produced by Frank Bravo (BravoITC.com)

San Mateo County Measure A

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 14:13:26 -0800

Two rank-and-file leaders of the campaign for Yes on Measure A, the San Mateo County ballot measure that would authorize the Board of Supervisors to fire Sheriff Christina Corpus, told The Game podcast that the ballot measure amounts to an “expedited recall.” Deputy Eliot Storch and Sgt. Sean Harper described a Sheriff’s Office in a crisis of leadership. “If this problem isn’t solved,” said Harper, “the problem is only going to get worse.”

Produced by Frank Bravo (https://www.BravoITC.com)

Jackie Speier

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 11:30:00 -0800

On the latest edition of The Game with Mark Simon and Bob Marks, former Congresswoman Jackie Speier, newly returned to the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, said the county needs to do “big things” and shift its focus beyond the highly localized policymaking that has emerged due to district elections.

Produced by Frank Bravo (https://www.BravoITC.com)

Anna Eshoo

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 14:30:48 -0800

Former Congresswoman Anna Eshoo joins Mark Simon and Bob Marks on this episode of The Game. Among her comments, she said the first weeks of the Trump administration have been a “horror show,” and laid out how she thinks Congressional Democrats should be responding to the disruption of the new presidency. “I miss not being in the fight, because I bring something to it,” she said.

Eshoo covered a wide range of topics, including local district elections and the need to rebuild the middle class.

Produced by Frank Bravo (https://www.BravoITC.com)

2024 Year in Review

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 13:11:57 -0800

In the final 2024 edition of The Game, Mark and Bob interview three local news editors and get their lists of the biggest stories of the year in San Mateo County. Spoiler alert — a certain sheriff is on the list, but so are a number of other stories that reflect a year unlike any other in recent memory.

Guests:

Jon Mays, Editor in Chief, San Mateo Daily Journal, (SMDailyJournal.com)
Angela Swartz, Editor, The Almanac, (AlmanacNews.com)
Peter Tokofsky, Editor in Chief, Coastside News Group, (CoastsideNews.com)

Produced by Frank Bravo (BravoITC.com)

Kevin Mullin

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 17:02:26 -0800

On the podcast of The Game with Mark Simon and Bob Marks, Congressman Kevin Mullin (D-South San Francisco) said he supports the pending county charter amendment that would allow the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors to fire Sheriff Christina Corpus, and he said she inevitably will be forced to leave office. Mullin said California Attorney General Rob Bonta can and should take steps to oust the controversial sheriff.

Mullin also weighed in on a range of national issues, including immigration and he predicted President-elect Donald Trump’s calls for mass deportations of illegal immigrants would fall short of his rhetoric.

Produced by Frank Bravo (BravoITC.com)

San Mateo County Supervisors Ray Mueller and Noelia Corzo talk about Sheriff controversy

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 15:55:29 -0800

In a special edition of The Game with Mark Simon and Bob Marks, San Mateo County Supervisors Ray Mueller and Noelia Corzo said they are confident the voters will recognize and reject the dysfunction, misuse of authority and corruption perpetrated by Sheriff Christina Corpus that has plunged the Sheriff’s Office into turmoil. Both said they are concerned for their own safety, as the controversy continues to unfold, Corzo saying it is “common sense to be concerned.” They also said it is too late for Corpus to redeem her tenure as sheriff and that the only option open to her is to resign, or face a vote of the public Mueller said would be a clear sign that the Board of Supervisors should remove her from office. “There’s too much damage that has been done,” Corzo said.

Full interview here and on TheGamePeninsula.com.

Produced by Frank Bravo, Bravo IT Consulting (BravoITC.com).

The Game LIVE Election Night Special (Replay)

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 05:46:02 -0800

Listen to a replay of Mark and Bob's special LIVE Election Night version of The Game, featuring special guests and all things politics, from the local elections to the local take on the national races.
Produced by Frank Bravo, Bravo IT Consulting (BravoITC.com).

Election Preview Live

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 14:54:48 -0700

Watch the replay of the Live Election Preview version of The Game with Mark Simon and Bob Marks.

Guests included:

Melissa Michelson, Political Science Professor at Menlo College

Don Cecil, MC2 Bay Area Public Affairs Consulting

Jim Hartnett, former CEO/General Manager, SamTrans and Caltrain

Julie Lind, San Mateo County Central Labor Council

Jon Mays, Editor, San Mateo Daily Journal

Produced by Frank Bravo, Bravo IT Consulting (BravoITC.com)

Episode 5 - Ted Robinson

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 18:53:47 -0700

Veteran sports broadcaster Ted Robinson predicts the end of college football — to be replaced by a professional developmental league that will feed the NFL — and he weighs in on the Giants, the A’s and the Olympics. All on the newest edition of The Game with Mark Simon and Bob Marks.

Produced by Frank Bravo, Bravo IT Consulting (BravoITC.com).

Episode 4 - Political roundup

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 13:43:04 -0700

In this episode, Mark Simon and Bob Marks talk local and national politics, in their most recent roundup edition of The Game.

Produced by Frank Bravo, Bravo IT Consulting (BravoITC.com).

Episode 3 - Lisa Gauthier

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 16:35:22 -0700

This week on The Game, Bob Marks and Mark Simon talk with Lisa Gauthier, candidate for the SMC Board of Supervisors, about the controversy at the Sheriff’s Office, housing and homelessness. Produced by Frank Bravo, Bravo IT Consulting (BravoITC.com).

Episode 2 - Kevin Mullin

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 05:07:34 -0700

In the latest episode of The Game podcast, Congressman Kevin Mullin (D-South San Francisco) joins Mark Simon and Bob Marks and says the election of Donald Trump would be "a clear and present danger" to the future of America and democracy. He talks about election and life as a freshman member of the House. Hear the wide-ranging interview here.

Produced by Frank Bravo, Bravo IT Consulting (BravoITC.com).

Episode 1 - The Game Is Back. The Game Is On!

Mark Simon and Bob Marks — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 14:16:41 -0700

Mark Simon and Bob Marks revive their long-running cable TV show The Game, where they interview local leaders and talk widely about politics, business and sports.

Today's show: Mark and Bob take a look at the presidential race and some of the local issues.

Produced by Frank Bravo, BravoITC.com