Show notes
Friend of the Pod Bill Wong joins us to chat about his new book, Better to Win. Wong, a renowned strategist to a bevy of major California Democrats, provides candid and occasionally Machiavellian advice to those who aspire not only to fight for justice, but to win those fights.Wong's story is filled with names familiar to followers of California politics, and gives the fascinating backstory to public fights, like the clandestine - and ultimately successful - effort to derail the appointment of Dan Lungren as State Treasurer.Better to Win examines the mindset and machinery involved in the use of power and the sacrifices necessary to affect meaningful change for those who don’t (yet) have a voice in the halls of power. This book shares skills and strategies for change agents and powerful stories of Asian Americans who played and continue to play an important role at the table where decisions are made.1:43 What was the inspiration for the book?3:17 The art of communication6:03 The era of Term Limits8:27 Relationships and trust10:06 How to upend a gubernatorial appointment: Dan Lungren edition14:17 The AAPI Caucus17:29 The Covid backlash against AAPI19:40 "The worst thing right now is the deafening silence from the Republican Party"21:19 Racist ads in CD4521:57 Democrats' "sub-optimal messaging"29:42 Advice for Tennessee Democrats?36:55 #WWCAWant to support the Capitol Weekly Podcast? Make your tax deductible donation here: capitolweekly.net/donations/Capitol Weekly Podcast theme is "Pickin' My Way" by Eddie Lang "#WorstWeekCA" Beat provided by freebeats.io
