All-In E39: West coast super drought & climate crisis, Nuclear virtue signaling, chaos in SF & more
Episode 39 • 7/9/2021
California Drought Crisis
- Friedberg explains that Western North America is experiencing a mega-drought unseen in 500+ years
- California snowpack reached 0% statewide by June 1st for first time ever
- Hydroelectric power down 70% compared to 2019 due to lack of snowmelt
- Major concerns about:
- Increased power demand from AC usage
- Reduced power availability
- Extremely dry forests creating fire risks
- Potential air quality issues affecting outdoor workers
Nuclear Power & Energy Solutions
- Discussion of nuclear power as key solution for energy/water challenges
- Criticism of anti-nuclear sentiment born from overreaction to Three Mile Island and Chernobyl
- Chamath argues that France's 70% nuclear power usage demonstrates success of nuclear strategy
- Call for more investment in desalination plants and nuclear power infrastructure
San Francisco Crime Discussion
- Heated debate about rising crime under DA Chesa Boudin
- Examples cited:
- Viral videos of mass robberies at Neiman Marcus
- Home invasions not being prosecuted properly
- Businesses reducing hours/closing due to theft
- Jason reveals that DA's office contacted him about investigating a startup investment after he funded journalist coverage
COVID-19 Delta Variant Updates
- New Israel data shows Pfizer vaccine effectiveness dropped to 64% against Delta variant
- Still 93% effective against serious cases requiring hospitalization
- Discussion of need for potential boosters in fall
- Agreement that policy changes not yet warranted despite breakthrough cases
- Emphasis on importance of global vaccination to prevent mutations
The episode covers several major crises facing California and broader policy issues, with particular focus on drought/energy infrastructure needs and rising crime in San Francisco under the current DA's leadership.