This Week’s Episode:
California’s Criminal Justice System: Have We Forgotten the Victims?
Criminals get second chances. But what happens to the families whose loved ones never got a second chance at life? California lawmakers are rewriting criminal justice laws, expanding parole opportunities, and debating the future of incarceration. Amid these decisions, one question remains: Who is speaking for the victims? In this powerful and sometimes emotional episode of SacTown Talks, host Hector Barajas sits down with Topo Padilla, President of Crime Victims United, for a candid conversation about California’s criminal justice system and whether the state has lost sight of the people it was supposed to protect.
SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!
Watch the full podcast episode
Listen Now!
New Episodes Every Week!
Navigating the Future of AI and Public Affairs with Jon Potter
In this episode of Sac Town Talks, Jarhett Blonien welcomes Jon Potter from RXN Group to explore various themes centered around public and government affairs, technological advancements, and the ongoing evolution of AI. Jon explains RXN Group's role in public affairs,...
Navigating Florida’s Shifting Political Landscape and National Election Dynamics with Jamie Miller
In this episode of SacTown Talks, Jamie Miller from People Who Think joins the show to discuss the evolving political landscape in Florida and its broader implications for national politics. Jamie provides insights into Florida's shift from a Democratic advantage to a...
End-of-Session Reflections with David Bowman
In this episode of SacTown Talks, David Bowman joins the discussion to reflect on an eventful legislative session. The episode delves into the unique aspects of the session's conclusion, including notable retirements, end-of-session processes, and procedural insights...
Hector Barajas
Host
Hector Barajas is a public affairs strategist, communications professional, and political analyst with more than 20 years of experience working at the intersection of government, media, public policy, and politics.
He is a political analyst for Univision and Telemundo, providing English- and Spanish-language analysis of politics, elections, public policy, and the issues affecting communities across the state and nation.
Throughout his career, he has advised elected officials, candidates, companies, and organizations on communications, media strategy, crisis management, and public affairs. His work has given him firsthand insight into how decisions are made in Sacramento, how they affect people and businesses, and how political and policy debates reach the public.
On the podcast, Barajas brings that experience to conversations with people across the political and ideological spectrum. The goal is to ask thoughtful questions, hear different perspectives, and help listeners better understand the people, policies, and decisions shaping California.