Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona Episode: February 5, 2025 - "Thanking The Protesters In Mesa For Helping To Keep People From Moving Here And Getting Into What The Results Of Protesting Even Are"

Introduction

In this episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness on Arizona's #1 Morning Radio Show, host John Holmberg engages in a provocative and satirical discussion about local protests in Mesa and their impact on population dynamics in Phoenix. Joined by his co-hosts Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, and returning guest Dick Toledo, the team delves into themes of immigration, media portrayal, local politics, and societal tensions with a mix of humor and sharp commentary.

Acknowledging Mesa's Protesters

John Holmberg kicks off the conversation by sarcastically “thanking” the protesters in Mesa for their role in deterring new residents from moving to the area. He references recent protests involving Mexicans near the Cardinals Stadium and comments on the media coverage these events receive.

John Holmberg [00:35]: “Let's hear it for the Mexicans putting us on national news, marching around over there by the Cardinals stadium, protesting, getting pepper sprayed. Now that is fantastic work...”

Holmberg praises the protesters for inadvertently showcasing Phoenix as a place rife with racial strife, which he suggests serves as a deterrent for potential new residents, particularly from the Midwest and Generation Z.

Media Portrayal and Public Perception

The hosts discuss how media coverage of protests portrays Phoenix negatively, contrasting it with the region's beautiful landscapes like McDowell Mountain and local golf courses. Holmberg criticizes the media's focus on protests over positive attributes, implying that this skewed representation influences outsiders' perceptions.

John Holmberg [02:49]: “CBS won't give us Maryville. Where's the blimp shots of Maryville? That's what I want to know.”

He suggests that broadcasters like CBS prioritize scenic shots over showcasing local unrest, further cementing Phoenix's image as a troubled city.

Impact on Migration and Demographics

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the migration patterns to Phoenix. Holmberg mentions a study indicating that Phoenix is among the top destinations for new residents, with a notable influx from California.

John Holmberg [07:16]: “They said, yeah, like we got 56,000 Californians in the last year to relocate here. Like, God damn it. That is not good.”

He expresses concern over the rapid population growth, attributing it to factors like high housing prices and the desire for a sunnier climate, while also highlighting the challenges this influx poses to local infrastructure and community dynamics.

Racial Tensions and Policing

The conversation takes a sharp turn as Holmberg and his co-hosts delve into the racial dynamics surrounding protests. They discuss the use of pepper spray by police against Mexican protesters, comparing it to tactics used against other groups.

John Holmberg [05:40]: “Is there a dial on the pepper spray for white people versus Mexicans?... Mexicans can take the heat. It's almost like the game hot ones.”

This segment underscores the perceived double standards in law enforcement's handling of different racial groups, highlighting underlying tensions within the community.

Local Politics and Community Actions

Holmberg proposes controversial ideas to further solidify Phoenix's image as an exclusive enclave, such as encouraging protests in upscale areas like Desert Ridge and Kierland to deter outsiders.

John Holmberg [17:00]: “Get a few proud boys walking around somewhere in a group with a sign. He... Get the message. I don't want them to actually have any power.”

He suggests orchestrating demonstrations that would draw negative attention, thereby discouraging new inhabitants from considering Phoenix as a desirable destination.

Humorous Anecdotes and Community Observations

Amidst the heavy topics, the hosts interject with humorous anecdotes and observations about local life, such as struggles with maintaining lemon trees and frustrations with community activities like Pilates and yoga classes.

John Holmberg [28:36]: “How if we started a men's only gym, where would that end up? Inside, we'd have a lot of massage parlor people...”

These lighter moments provide a balance to the otherwise intense discussion, showcasing the hosts' ability to blend humor with social commentary.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, Holmberg reiterates his gratitude towards the protesters for their role in shaping Phoenix's identity. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining the city's exclusivity to prevent further population growth, aligning with his overarching theme of preserving Phoenix's current demographic and cultural landscape.

John Holmberg [31:35]: “We need to start shooting darts and we're just sticking. They don't... They're impervious to that stuff. So if we... they're impervious.”

The episode concludes with Holmberg reinforcing the idea that Phoenix should remain a "massive country club" limited to current residents, using a mix of satire and critique to underscore his points.

Notable Quotes

• John Holmberg [00:35]: “Let's hear it for the Mexicans putting us on national news...”
• John Holmberg [02:49]: “CBS won't give us Maryville. Where's the blimp shots of Maryville?”
• John Holmberg [05:40]: “Is there a dial on the pepper spray for white people versus Mexicans?...”
• John Holmberg [17:00]: “Get a few proud boys walking around somewhere in a group with a sign...”
• John Holmberg [28:36]: “How if we started a men's only gym, where would that end up?”
• John Holmberg [31:35]: “We need to start shooting darts and we're just sticking. They don't...”

Closing Remarks

This episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness offers a provocative take on the socio-political climate in Phoenix, blending satire with sharp observations on immigration, media influence, and local governance. Through a mix of humor and contentious commentary, Holmberg and his co-hosts present a narrative that challenges listeners to reflect on the complexities of urban growth and community identity.

Tune in daily weekdays from 5:30 AM to 10:00 AM on 98 KUPD (97.9 FM) or via the 98KUPD app and www.98kupd.com for more engaging discussions and insights.