Gov. Gavin Newsom of California recently spoke out about the current state of the Democratic Party, labeling the party’s brand as “toxic.” Newsom, who was once considered a liberal combatant, has been critical of his own party since President Trump’s election, and Republican victories in Congress. He blamed Democrats for being judgmental, living in an echo chamber, and resorting to “cancel culture” to ostracize those with differing views. Newsom also criticized Democrats for talking down to people and failing to engage with others effectively.
In his appearance on “Real Time With Bill Maher,” Newsom expressed concern about the Democratic Party’s low favorability ratings, pointing to a recent NBC News poll. He launched a new podcast, “This Is Gavin Newsom,” to explore what went wrong for Democrats in the 2024 elections, speaking with guests like conservative Charlie Kirk and Steve Bannon. While this move drew criticism from liberal allies, Newsom emphasized the importance of engaging in conversation with those on the other side, noting that ignoring them is not productive.
Senator Chuck Schumer’s recent decision to help avoid a government shutdown by delivering votes drew mixed reactions from Democrats, with some seeing it as a sign of weakness. Democrats are still trying to understand what went wrong in the previous elections and strategizing on how to regain control of Congress in 2026. Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota, who was the Democratic vice-presidential candidate in 2024, joined Newsom in a conversation about the party’s current state and the need for unity against Trump.
Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania also criticized the party, warning of a “permanent minority” if they do not address their issues. Newsom emphasized the importance of Democrats owning up to their mistakes and addressing what is wrong with their party. His comments were likened to former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s critique of the California Republican Party in 2007 when he urged them to move towards the center for relevance. California Republicans largely ignored the advice and have struggled to win statewide office ever since.
On his podcast and during his appearance on “Real Time With Bill Maher,” Newsom surprised many when he expressed concerns about transgender athletes playing in female sports, a stance that the host approved of. However, during the show, Maher raised the issue of a California state law that prohibits teachers from informing parents when a student seeks a gender identity change at school. Newsom defended the law as a means to protect teachers and students, while Maher argued in favor of informing parents. Maher has expressed his desire to see Newsom run for president, but Newsom remains noncommittal on any grand plans beyond his final term as governor ends in 2027.
