Despite the pandemic, state officials are projecting a $38 billion surplus in the upcoming fiscal year. The question: How to spend it? It's a good problem to have for Gov. Gavin Newsom, who's facing a recall election and is pushing ideas including more stimulus payments and expanding an intriguing program for unhoused people. Joining the podcast is Chronicle Sacramento reporter Alexei Koseff, who discusses the big windfall and the political considerations in a state grappling with immense poverty and inequality along with drought and fire crises. | Unlimited Chronicle access: sfchronicle.com/pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices