Rabbi Marvin Hier, Big Wave Surfer Bianca Valenti, Political Roundup

California Politics amid Trump Uncertainty 

It’s been a busy kickoff to the new year in Sacramento, where Gov. Jerry Brown this week unveiled his budget proposal. The governor warned that state revenues are shrinking and that California faces uncertainty as Donald Trump assumes the presidency. Also, the governor’s nominee for California attorney general, Xavier Becerra, faced his first confirmation hearing. KQED California Politics and Government reporter Marisa Lagos sits down with Politico senior reporter David Siders.

Rabbi Marvin Hier

Next week’s inauguration for Donald Trump will include blessings from six religious leaders, including a rabbi from Los Angeles. Rabbi Marvin Hier is head of the Simon Wiesenthal Center and its Museum of Tolerance. Rabbi Hier’s participation in the inauguration is drawing criticism and anger from many Jewish Americans, who view Trump as a deeply divisive figure. They’re calling on the rabbi to withdraw from the inaugural ceremony. KQED Senior Editor of Politics and Government Scott Shafer talks with Rabbi Hier.

New Wave: Women at Mavericks

The Mavericks big-wave surfing contest is about to undergo a big change. For the first time in the competition’s history, there will be a women’s-only heat: Six women will compete for a $30,000 prize. The change comes after a group of top women surfers launched a steady campaign to gain access to the prestigious competition. San Francisco surfer Bianca Valenti was a key figure behind that push. She sits down with Thuy Vu.