Guest:

Jessica Patterson, Former California GOP Chair

Guest Bio:

Jessica Patterson is the former Chair of the California Republican Party and a longtime political strategist focused on voter registration, grassroots organizing, and rebuilding Republican strength across the state. During her six years as chair, California Republicans added more than a million new registered voters and expanded outreach into communities long ignored by the party.

Show Summary

What would it actually take for Republicans to win again in California? In this episode of State of Gold, Jon Slavet sits down with former California GOP Chair Jessica Patterson to talk about how the party can reposition itself, why showing up in neglected communities matters, and what it will take to connect with voters beyond the traditional Republican base.

Patterson reflects on the registration gains made during her time leading the party, the importance of strong local messengers, and why issues like gas prices, housing, and education continue to give Republicans an opening in California. She also explains why she believes the GOP already has the right ideas, but must continue doing a better job of meeting voters where they are.

The conversation also dives into some of the state’s most pressing policy failures, from high gas prices and energy dependence to CEQA, housing affordability, school choice, and Sacramento’s spending priorities. They close with a look at the billionaire tax, why it could hurt everyday Californians, and what Patterson would do first to help turn the state around.

Chapters
00:00 – Jessica Patterson Joins State of Gold

00:03 – How Republicans Can Start Winning Again in California

03:19 – Can Republicans Win in the Trump Era?

05:40 – California Energy, Gas Prices & What Newsom Should Do

09:39 – The 2026 Governor’s Race and the Top Two Dynamic

13:57 – The $114 Million Wildlife Bridge

16:29 – The Billionaire Tax and How It Hurts Average Californians

18:16 – Rapid Fire: How to Fix California

19:04 – School Choice and the Future of Education

19:36 – What Gives Jessica Patterson Hope

20:01 – California Is Worth Saving

Connect with Jessica Patterson

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cagopchairwoman/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAGOPchairwoman/
Twitter: https://x.com/millanpatterson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/millanpatterson

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