The Issue Is: Elex Michaelson's Final Episode and Memorable Moments

Farewell to 'The Issue Is'

• 🎤 Elex Michaelson bids farewell to his show, 'The Issue Is,' after 7.5 years, reflecting on memorable moments and pursuing a new opportunity.
• 🌟 He expresses gratitude to management for creating a platform for important conversations and celebrates the show's journey.

Key Guests and Political Milestones

• 🏛️ The show featured prominent political figures, including governors like Gavin Newsom, senators like Adam Schiff and Karen Bass, and civil rights icon John Lewis.
• 🎤 Presidential candidates from 2019-2020, including Pete Buttigieg and Kamala Harris, were interviewed, with a special TV town hall hosted for Buttigieg.
• 🇺🇸 The show covered significant political events such as the 2020 election, Kamala Harris's VP nomination, and the January 6th insurrection.
• 🗳️ It also documented key California political moments, including the recall effort against Governor Newsom and the LA mayoral race.

Tackling Pressing Social Issues

• 🏠 'The Issue Is' addressed critical issues like homelessness in Los Angeles, questioning the city's effectiveness as a model.
• 😷 The program adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting to virtual interviews with figures like Dr. Anthony Fauci and providing daily virtual briefings with the governor.
• ✊ The show covered protests and riots following the death of George Floyd and later, protests against ICE raids.

Exclusive Segments and Personal Touches

• 💃 Gloria Allred became a recurring guest, known for her unique dance moves and engaging presence on the show.
• 🎶 'Personal Issues' segments offered a lighter side, with guests sharing favorite songs, nicknames, and hobbies.
• ✈️ The show featured exclusive field profiles, including tours of Jerry Brown's ranch, rides on Air Force 2 with Vice President Harris, and workouts with Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Reflections and Gratitude

• 🙏 Michaelson acknowledges the emotional rollercoaster of the past 7.5 years, highlighting experiences like fires, shootings, COVID, and political events.
• 🤝 He emphasizes the importance of communication and laughter in times of division, thanking his team, family, and guests for their contributions.
• 🌟 The episode concludes with heartfelt messages from guests and colleagues, celebrating Michaelson's journalism and wishing him success in his future endeavors.