The Golden State, it is often said, is where the future happens first. Now Los Angeles, long a bastion of the left, is seriously contemplating choosing a billionaire former Republican as its next mayor. Voters are fed up with homelessness and crime and are threatening to follow San Francisco’s example and recall progressive public prosecutors who had promised to reimagine public safety. Is California revealing the limits of progressive politics? The mayor of Los Angeles, Eric Garcetti, reflects on his city’s progress and challenges as he leaves office. We head to the campaign trail to meet the candidates vying to replace him. And Fernando Guerra of Loyola Marymount University explains what California’s example means for the rest of the country.  John Prideaux hosts with Charlotte Howard and Aryn Braun. For full access to print, digital and audio editions, as well as exclusive live events, subscribe to The Economist at economist.com/uspod. Subscribers can also sign up to our “Checks and Balance” newsletter at economist.com/newsletters.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.