Key Takeaways:
- California Governor Gavin Newsom has started a podcast where he chats with controversial right-wing guests.
- Some Democrats are upset, saying he’s giving a platform to harmful views.
- Others think it’s a smart move to appeal to centrist voters.
- The podcast is part of Newsom’s potential plan to run for president in 2028.
A New Podcast Stirs Debate
California Governor Gavin Newsom has launched a podcast called This is Gavin Newsom. On it, he talks to people he disagrees with, like right-wing figures Charlie Kirk and Steve Bannon. While Newsom says he’s trying to bridge divides, many Democrats are furious.
Newsom, who might run for president in 2028, wants to appeal to centrist voters. He’s agreed with some of his guests’ views, such as banning trans women from female sports. But Democrats on the left say he’s legitimizing harmful ideas and not challenging his guests enough.
Why Are Democrats Mad?
Progressive Democrats are upset because they believe Newsom is giving a platform to extremist views. For example, Steve Bannon, a former Trump advisor, falsely claimed Trump won the 2020 election on the podcast. Newsom didn’t correct him, which angered critics.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, another potential Democratic candidate, called Bannon dangerous and said he shouldn’t be given a platform. Some Democrats even think Newsom’s strategy could hurt his chances of winning the Democratic nomination.
Republicans Think It’s a Smart Move
But some Republicans, like fundraiser Anne Dunsmore, think Newsom’s podcast is clever. She says he’s reaching voters that other Democrats aren’t. By talking to right-wing guests, Newsom is distancing himself from some of his party’s unpopular positions, like supporting trans athletes in sports.
Conservative host Megyn Kelly even warned Republicans not to appear on the podcast. She said it could help Newsom build a bipartisan audience, which might help him in a future presidential race.
Is the Podcast Helpful for Democrats?
Strategist Steven Maviglio doubts the podcast helps Democrats. He says Newsom needs to focus on winning over Democratic primary voters first. “To be president, you have to appeal to Democrats,” Maviglio said. “Newsom should focus on his job as governor instead of courting conservatives.”
Others, like communications expert Steve Caplan, question whether Democrats want their leaders associating with figures like Bannon and Kirk. “It’s not what Democrats want right now,” Caplan said.
A History of Crossing the Aisle
Newsom has a history of reaching out beyond his liberal base. He’s run ads in conservative states, debated Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Fox News, and campaigned for Joe Biden in red states. His goal seems to be capturing national attention, even if it means upsetting some in his own party.
Mixed Reactions from Guests
Charlie Kirk, a right-wing activist, said appearing on the podcast was “almost nauseatingly positive.” He found it hard to navigate because Newsom was so friendly. Despite the tension, Newsom has hinted at inviting more controversial guests, like Tucker Carlson.
The Bigger Picture
Podcasts are a huge part of U.S. politics, and right-wing shows dominate the space. They played a big role in Trump’s 2016 win. Democrats have struggled to compete, but Newsom’s podcast might be an attempt to change that.
By talking to conservatives, Newsom is trying to position himself as a unifier. But Democrats are split on whether this strategy will help or hurt their cause.
What’s Next?
Only time will tell if Newsom’s podcast strategy pays off. For now, it’s clear that his approach is causing a stir within the Democratic Party. Whether it helps him win over centrist voters or alienates his base remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: Gavin Newsom is taking a bold risk to stand out in a crowded political landscape.