In a year marked by both chaos and creativity, satirist Tom Lehrer passed away in 2025, leaving behind a legacy of political commentary that spanned decades. Known for his sharp wit and incisive songs, Lehrer once remarked that “political satire became obsolete” when Henry Kissinger received the Nobel Peace Prize. As we look towards 2026, predictions abound, offering a blend of humor and reflection on the challenges facing California, particularly Los Angeles.
Rick Caruso, a prominent developer and city council member, is speculated to abstain from running for governor or mayor of Los Angeles. Instead, he might challenge Traci Park, another council member, and secure victory with a staggering campaign expenditure of $538 million. Surprisingly, Caruso may then align with progressive policies, citing his Catholic faith as a guiding principle in addressing issues like homelessness and housing affordability.
Meanwhile, Gavin Newsom appears poised to withdraw from the 2028 presidential race. Reports indicate he might retreat to a rural ranch once owned by former governor Jerry Brown. There, he could take a vow of silence until the completion of California’s high-speed rail project, a move that would leave him unheard in political discourse.
In sports, UCLA football plans to break its contract with the Rose Bowl, relocating to a smaller venue in hopes of boosting attendance. Despite an undefeated season, the team struggles to fill the stands, raising questions about fan engagement in college athletics.
On a more unexpected note, former Trump advisor Stephen Miller may undergo a dramatic transformation after accidentally using Rogaine. This change could lead him to advocate for immigration reform, surprising many as he shifts from a history of strict deportation policies to supporting amnesty and open borders.
In a lighter twist, Los Angeles faces a peculiar meteor event, prompting Mayor Karen Bass to order a citywide evacuation. However, the meteor shrinks upon entering the atmosphere, ultimately landing harmlessly at City Hall, where it humorously critiques the mayor’s decision to travel abroad during local crises.
The political landscape in California could take an unprecedented turn during the June primary, with all candidates receiving identical vote counts, leading to a unique runoff determined by a game of rock, paper, scissors. The final contestants could be Antonio Villaraigosa, a former mayor, and political commentator Steve Hilton, who might agree to concede if offered a ceremonial title.
In environmental matters, the city of San Clemente aims to tackle coastal erosion by acquiring sand from Saudi Arabia and constructing a massive seawall. Despite these efforts, the community grapples with the realities of climate change, highlighting the ongoing battle against nature’s forces.
The year 2026 also promises more political and social intrigue, as low-level tornadoes reportedly strike communities along Whittier Boulevard, a phenomenon linked to former councilman Kevin de León‘s public speaking engagements.
As technology continues to evolve, NASA announces a significant meteor threat, while the entertainment industry gears up for a slate of predictable releases from Disney, raising questions about originality in modern filmmaking.
With a mix of humor and heartfelt predictions, the outlook for California in 2026 is both uncertain and intriguing. As the state navigates its challenges, it remains a focal point for political, social, and environmental conversations.
