Newsom has an WAY bigger things to do then starting a new business, like fixing his burnt down cities.
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s announcement of a new podcast has sparked an overwhelming backlash from critics, with many questioning the timing and relevance of his latest venture. The announcement came amid a backdrop of crises plaguing the state under his leadership—rampant homelessness, soaring gas prices, and financial mismanagement—that have left many Californians frustrated and disillusioned.
In a video posted to X, Newsom proudly introduced his podcast, “This is Gavin Newsom,” claiming it would be anything but ordinary. He pitched it as a space for “real conversations” on issues like the rising cost of living, tariffs, and what’s happening with the cryptocurrency world. He also promised to engage with “leaders and architects in the MAGA movement,” signaling his willingness to engage with those with whom he disagrees.
But while Newsom’s pitch may have sounded upbeat, many Californians were unimpressed. Conservative figures wasted no time reminding him of the deep problems his state faces. “California has been burn to mess it is wallowing in financial destruction. So, Newsom naturally decides to start a podcast. WHAT?!” posted conservative commentator Paul Szypula. Rather than supporting Newsom’s media venture, critics pointed out that his focus should be on fixing the state, not creating new distractions.
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy made a direct reference to Newsom’s infamous “French Laundry” scandal, where the governor was caught dining at a posh restaurant without a mask while the state was under strict COVID restrictions. “Why did you throw a party at the French Laundry with no masks on while Californians were suffering?” Portnoy asked, underscoring Newsom’s failure to lead responsibly.
Others, like Republican Rep. Carl DeMaio, took to social media to suggest names for Newsom’s podcast, mocking the governor’s tendency to deflect from the state’s crises. “Gaslighting with Gavin” was DeMaio’s suggestion, a sharp jab at Newsom’s perceived habit of ignoring or downplaying California’s most pressing issues.
In a particularly biting response, Brianna Lyman of The Federalist questioned the timing of the podcast launch, asking how it was possible that Newsom would prioritize a new media project while homelessness and wildfires continue to ravage the state. John Dennis, Chair of the California Republican Party, summed it up bluntly: “I’d rather pour acid in my ears than listen to a Gavin Newsom podcast.”
For many, Newsom’s latest media venture feels like an attempt to divert attention from his failing record as governor. With California grappling with skyrocketing costs of living, high crime rates, and an unsustainable housing crisis, critics argue that Newsom should be focused on practical solutions rather than self-promotion. Until he addresses the real concerns of Californians, the governor’s podcast will likely remain a subject of mockery and skepticism.