Newsom’s failed record was clearly front and center.
California Governor Gavin Newsom suffered a brutal political embarrassment Wednesday night when members of his own party appeared afraid to defend his failing record during a high-stakes California governor debate.
What should have been an easy chance for Democrats to praise Newsom quickly turned into an awkward public spectacle, exposing cracks inside the party as candidates struggled to answer basic questions about California’s worsening homelessness crisis.
For conservatives watching from across the country, it was another reminder of how left-wing leadership has failed one of America’s biggest states.
Gavin Newsom Put On The Spot
Moderators asked six candidates in California’s open governor race to give Newsom a letter grade for his handling of homelessness and explain what they would do differently.
Instead of confident answers, viewers got hesitation, dodging, and political gymnastics.
That alone spoke volumes.
Newsom, long considered a national Democrat star and frequent critic of President Donald Trump, reportedly planned to watch the debate himself.
Democrats Refuse To Tell The Truth
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan first refused to give any grade at all. After being pushed, he finally gave Newsom a “B,” then tried to spread blame by saying everyone deserved a “D” on implementation.
Former Rep. Katie Porter also handed Newsom a “B,” despite years of exploding homelessness, crime concerns, and taxpayer frustration.
That answer triggered laughter and a sharp response from Republican candidate Steve Hilton.
“Wow. I’d love to be in your class,” Hilton joked, mocking Porter’s soft grading of Newsom.
Billionaire activist Tom Steyer gave Newsom a “B-.”
Former Biden cabinet official Xavier Becerra gave the governor the highest score of all: an “A.”
Many viewers were stunned.
Republicans Deliver The Real Verdict
Republican candidates used the moment to say what many Californians already believe.
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco argued homelessness is tied to drug addiction and mental illness—two issues Sacramento leadership has failed to confront.
He pledged to redirect spending away from politically connected nonprofits and toward treatment centers, recovery programs, and mental health facilities.
Hilton was even more direct.
He called Gavin Newsom’s homelessness agenda a total “failure.”
Why Democrats Are Still Protecting Newsom
So why were Democrats so hesitant?
Because Gavin Newsom still holds major power inside California politics. An endorsement from him could shape fundraising, media support, and primary momentum.
That means many candidates appear more worried about upsetting Newsom than telling voters the truth.
California’s Crisis Is Bigger Than One Debate
Homeless encampments, public safety concerns, soaring housing costs, and taxpayer anger continue to dominate life in many California communities.
Yet during one of the biggest debates of the race, Democrats still struggled to admit the obvious.
That may be the most revealing moment of all.
What Happens Next Could Shock Democrats
If voters decide California needs real change, Wednesday night may be remembered as the moment Gavin Newsom’s own party exposed his weakness.
The governor wasn’t on the ballot.