The John Phillips Show · 790 KABC Radio | Cumulus Los Angeles

Gavin Newsom wants to spend $20 million of taxpayer money on a big ad campaign

·37 min·3 clips

LAX wants to double rideshare fees to push people toward a people mover that doesn't even exist yet.

This episode of The John Phillips Show criticizes recent California transportation policies and spending proposals. Host John Phillips and caller Randy Wang discuss airport experiences and state budget priorities. They focus on perceived inefficiencies in Los Angeles infrastructure and Governor Gavin Newsom's fiscal plans. LAX plans to double rideshare fees to encourage use of a not-yet-completed people mover system. Phillips calls this move "so on brand" for Los Angeles, arguing it punishes travelers for something unfinished. He strongly prefers Southern California's regional airports, having used LAX only once in five years. Phillips lists Long Beach, Burbank, Orange County, Palm Springs, and Ontario as fantastic alternatives. He notes these airports are shiny, easy to use, and sometimes feel like going back in time. Connecting flights through regional airports can avoid LAX's "misery" at similar or lower costs. Burbank to Las Vegas flights typically cost a minimum of $200, compared to under $50 from LAX. Phillips questions whether the higher price is worth the gain in personal sanity. The caller confirms Burbank lacks airline lounges, unlike Orange County's Admirals Club. The episode's central claim is that California prioritizes impractical projects over functional infrastructure. Phillips implies policy decisions reflect a disconnect between planners and public experience. His airport comparison suggests convenience often outweighs pure cost considerations for travelers. The discussion frames transportation choices as balancing financial expense against personal well-being. Phillips presents regional airports as hidden gems that savvy travelers already utilize. The proposed LAX fee hike is characterized as a punitive measure for a non-existent solution. The tone is informal and opinionated, featuring conversational banter between host and caller. Its style blends personal anecdote with political commentary on state governance. Listeners frustrated with California's governance or LAX's congestion would appreciate this episode. Those seeking neutral policy analysis or broader transportation topics might find it too narrow and critical.

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