Gavin Newsom’s New Podcast Sparks Outrage Among Democrats
A jovial new podcast in which California Governor Gavin Newsom pals around with provocative right-wing guests has infuriated the Democratic Party, as its leaders clash over the best way to fight back against Donald Trump.
Courting Centrist Voters
In an apparent bid to court centrist US voters, Newsom launched "This is Gavin Newsom," pledging to talk to "those I fundamentally disagree with." Across the first few episodes, Newsom banters with Republicans like activist Charlie Kirk and firebrand Steve Bannon, agreeing with many of their views, like barring trans women from female sports.
Controversy and Criticism
Many Democrats on the party’s left flank have blasted Newsom for providing a platform to views and figures they consider to be taboo, and failing to push back on his guests’ inflammatory statements and lies. However, some Republicans like Anne Dunsmore, a veteran fundraiser who has spearheaded efforts to recall Newsom in California, argue that the strategy is smarter than it appears.
A New Strategy
Dunsmore believes that Newsom is "doing what everybody else ought to be doing" by engaging with right-wing voices. She notes that right-wing podcasts rarely feature Democratic guests and are often "talking to themselves." By speaking to the other side, Newsom is distancing himself from his party’s unpopular positions on issues like trans athletes, said Dunsmore.
Reaching Out to the Right
Newsom’s strategy of speaking with right-wing extremists is "not helpful to the Democratic cause," according to Sacramento-based strategist Steven Maviglio. However, he also questions whether it even benefits Newsom, who would first need to win the Democratic nomination in order to run for the White House.
Breaking Bread
Newsom has a history of making bold overtures beyond his own liberal state. In recent years, he has run pro-choice abortion ads in Alabama, debated Florida governor Ron DeSantis on Fox News, and campaigned for then-president Joe Biden in red states like Idaho. Capturing national media attention may be the main goal, said Steve Caplan, who teaches communications and marketing at University of Southern California.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Newsom’s new podcast has sparked a heated debate within the Democratic Party. While some see it as a bold move to reach out to centrist voters, others view it as a betrayal of the party’s values and principles. As the 2028 elections approach, only time will tell whether Newsom’s strategy will pay off or backfire.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of Gavin Newsom’s new podcast?
A: The podcast aims to court centrist US voters and engage with right-wing voices.
Q: How have Democrats reacted to the podcast?
A: Many Democrats on the party’s left flank have criticized Newsom for providing a platform to right-wing extremists and failing to push back on their inflammatory statements.
Q: Is this strategy likely to benefit Newsom?
A: Some argue that it may not benefit Newsom, who would first need to win the Democratic nomination in order to run for the White House. Others believe it may help him distance himself from his party’s unpopular positions on issues like trans athletes.