It’s Election Day, Brad and Carri’s favorite day of the year! Carri and Brad dive into the shifting sands of Democratic politics with a sharp focus on the rising tensions within the party. They unpack Gavin Newsom’s bold strategy and leadership style that’s reshaping California’s political landscape, showing how his alignment of culture, comms, and tactics is crushing the competition. The episode then shifts eastward to the highly contested New Jersey governor’s race where Mikie Sherrill holds a narrow but hopeful lead. Brad and Carri explore what’s at stake as Sherrill battles to maintain blue ground in a state defined by its diversity and political complexity. They highlight how micromessaging around reproductive rights and cost of living is driving energized grassroots turnout, even in traditionally challenging territories. Finally, the conversation turns to Barack Obama’s enduring role as the gold standard of Democratic leadership. From behind-the-scenes signaling to strategic public appearances, Obama remains the compass for many Democrats navigating a fractured party and turbulent political times. Carri and Brad discuss how his subtle influence could shape the path forward and inspire new leaders. Amid fractures and challenges, this episode finds threads of hope, strategy, and resilience in a party wrestling with its future—and the stakes couldn’t be higher as the 2025 elections approach. Be sure to click that FOLLOW button on Spotify,  Apple Podcasts, or SUBSCRIBE button on YouTube, so that you don’t miss out on our coverage of the most pressing and interesting news stories.  Have thoughts about this episode? Have ideas on topics we should discuss? Let us know! Email us at twiggandjenkinspodcast@gmail.com, DM us, or leave a comment on YouTube. Also, share this episode with a friend, a bestie, or humans you want to foster political discourse with.  Twigg & Jenkins is produced by Culture House and Enfranchisement Productions.