Cactus Crossfire Episode 3: Out Now!
- Cactus Crossfire

- Aug 25, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 8, 2025

Pop Culture, Politics, and the Power of the Younger Vote
The political landscape is shifting—and if you want to understand how pop culture, economic realities, and generational change are shaping tomorrow’s leaders, Episode 3 of the Cactus Crossfire Podcast is a must-listen.
What’s the Buzz?
In this episode, hosts Sisto Abeyta and Eddie Ableser take you behind the headlines of a provocative ad campaign featuring Sydney Sweeney. What starts as a discussion about manufactured outrage and the social media echo chamber quickly expands into a candid look at how political messaging is evolving to reach Gen Z and millennial voters—especially in the West.
Why Tune In?
Pop Culture Meets Politics: Ever wonder why certain ads go viral—and what that means for political discourse? Sisto and Eddie break down the mechanics behind the latest controversy and explore how “if it bleeds, it leads” still drives engagement.
The Gen Z Factor: With younger voters, especially Latinos, becoming a decisive force in elections, the hosts dive into the real challenges of mobilizing these groups. From low turnout to digital engagement, the conversation is honest, nuanced, and full of insights for anyone interested in the future of democracy.
Economic Realities: High mortgage rates, Gen Z moving back home, and the evolving definition of financial success—no topic is off limits. The hosts draw connections between economic policy and generational attitudes, offering both personal stories and big-picture analysis.
Policy and the Western States: From Utah’s new education tax rebate law to New Mexico’s evolving immigration policies, the episode spotlights how Western states are leading (and sometimes lagging) in adapting to new political and economic realities.
Action Items and What’s Next
The episode doesn’t just analyze trends—it sets the stage for deeper dives in future shows. Expect follow-ups on legislative developments, education reform, and how political parties can better connect with the next generation of voters.
Ready to Join the Conversation?
Episode 3 is out now. Listen, subscribe, and let us know what you think—your feedback shapes every episode. Whether you’re a policy wonk, a campaign strategist, or just curious about the changing face of American politics, you’ll find something to spark your interest.
🎧 Listen to Episode 3 directly: Cactus Crossfire Podcast — Episode 3
Stay engaged. Stay informed. And don’t miss the next round of Cactus Crossfire.
References:
Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle ad: from denim to culture war
Trump and other politicians weigh in
Brands under the political microscope
American Eagle controlled the narrative by responding only via Instagram (USA Today)
Historical context: Fred Harvey’s “American Southwest” branding and color palette
Nike & Colin Kaepernick
Pepsi & Kendall Jenner
Bud Light & Dylan Mulvaney
Campaign Post: Dylan Mulvaney’s Instagram (archived post)(Note: The original post may be removed or private; news coverage includes screenshots.)
Coverage: Bud Light faces backlash after partnership with trans influencer | NBC News
Gillette’s “The Best Men Can Be”
Goya Foods
Jeep & Bruce Springsteen
Campaign Video: Jeep | The Middle (Super Bowl 2021) | YouTube (Official)
Coverage: Bruce Springsteen’s Jeep Super Bowl ad pulled after DWI charge | CNN
Recent polling on Latino voters (UnidosUS, Politico, Vox)
UnidosUS National Latino Voter Survey (April 2025)Press release with toplines on issues, party favorability, and voter sentiment:🔗 https://unidosus.org/press-releases/nearly-two-thirds-of-hispanic-voters-believe-country-is-headed-in-the-wrong-direction-70-percent-hold-president-trump-responsible/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Younger Latino Voters Driving ChangeUnidosUS deep dive into new voter patterns among Gen Z and millennial Latinos:🔗 https://unidosus.org/press-releases/new-younger-latino-voters-are-driving-shifts-in-latino-voter-sentiment/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Somos Votantes Poll: Trump Support Crashing Among Latinos (June 2025)Politico article on new polling showing steep decline in approval ratings:🔗 https://www.politico.com/news/2025/06/03/somos-votanes-poll-trump-approval-latinos-00381955?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Key Polls & Links
Can Harris Deliver Latino Support in AZ & NV? (The Hill)A report on the challenges Vice President Harris faces with Latino outreach:🔗 https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4899133-harris-latino-voters-hispanic-americans-arizona-nevada-rosen-gallego/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
How Trump Reached Young Men Through Sports & Masculinity MessagingAP News deep dive on Trump's cultural messaging among young men:🔗 https://apnews.com/article/ff30e38698a41132cf90345fffabe579?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Reference recent campaign ads and social media moments:







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