Gavin Newsom is still concentrating on his duties as California’s Governor, and as we look ahead to 2026, that involves… another podcast appearance.
During a conversation with conservative commentator Ben Shapiro on Thursday, the discussion often wandered without much excitement, yet it highlighted that Newsom needs to sharpen his presidential campaign messaging. Feedback from both sides of the political aisle was largely negative.
1. Newsom Reassesses Criticism of ICE
The governor’s office has actively clashed with President Trump and the GOP, launching an assertive social media campaign featuring memes and sharp remarks to defend his record on current issues. However, when questioned about a tweet regarding the killing of Minnesota woman Renee Good by ICE, Newsom admitted that his social media team may have crossed a line.
SHAPIRO: Your organization called this “state-sponsored terrorism.” What’s your take on that?
Newsom: Correct.
SHAPIRO: Such commentary worsens our political landscape.
Newsom: Yeah.
SHAPIRO: Our ICE agents certainly aren’t terrorists.
Newsom: Yeah.
SHAPIRO: The situation is not state-sponsored terrorism.
Newsom: Yes, that’s a reasonable perspective.
This exchange garnered varied responses on social media from both ends of the political spectrum.
A more liberal observer on X labeled Newsom as lacking backbone, while others viewed his remarks as a notable “flip-flop.”
2. Newsom Sidesteps Transgender Debate
While his social media crew had no qualms about criticizing Elon Musk regarding his children and transgender issues, when it came to discussing transgender transitions in children, Newsom skillfully avoided a direct answer.
Newsom: Trump’s statement suggesting children can undergo surgery and return to school the next day is outrageous.
Newsom: However, there definitely are instances where children socially transition without their parents’ knowledge. I know families that this has happened to. The central question beneath it all, which you’re reluctant to tackle, is can a boy really become a girl?
Newsom: Yeah, well, I suppose, for the grace of God. Yeah.
SHAPIRO: People struggling with mental or physical health is genuinely unfortunate.
Newsom: I think it’s a lasting tribute made over generations. God bless you.
SHAPIRO: Why is this so challenging? I just don’t understand.
3. Newsom Critiques Gaza Situation
In an evident sign that he needs to firm up his stance on the Gaza conflict, Newsom used hand gestures while trying to articulate whether Israel committed acts of genocide.
SHAPIRO: “Israel isn’t committing genocide in Gaza. The facts don’t support that claim.”
Newsom: Only from a legal or factual standpoint.
SHAPIRO: Yes. What are your thoughts?
Newsom: I can grasp why some may assert that based on images and proportionality…
SHAPIRO: Just because something is “ugly” doesn’t make it genocide. Proportionality isn’t that simple if you kill my kid and then I retaliate.
Newsom: I see your point, but I appreciate why people may feel compelled to draw that distinction regarding how this war unfolded.
SHAPIRO: Why justify it? Can’t you just say it’s untrue?
Newsom: I don’t know the legal definition; that’s not my opinion, so I disagree with that characterization concerning genocide.
4. California Taxes: A Distraction?
Newsom admitted California’s housing and living costs are almost impossible to reconcile over decades, but he defended his record by proposing tax credits for families and foster children.
SHAPIRO: What about lowering state income tax rates significantly?
Newsom: California has taxes, and there are now 16 states. Let’s discuss these states.
SHAPIRO: We’re focusing on California, right?
Newsom: They tax low-income individuals more than high-income ones. Let’s consider lower tax rates across these 16 states.
5. Newsom’s Budget Under Fire
While Newsom criticized Trump for disregarding national debt, his budget proposal has sparked skepticism, with the state comptroller foreseeably disagreeing with the optimistic outlook. Critics say that whoever takes over as California’s governor next will likely challenge this plan.
Newsom: We’ve ensured you’re fond of the Big Beautiful Bill regarding taxation. You might not care about debt, but that’s a different matter.
SHAPIRO: Honestly, I don’t worry about it.
Newsom: Trump likely doesn’t see it that way, does he?
SHAPIRO: Fair point, but to be blunt, I don’t think anyone really focuses on the debt.
Newsom: Just so it’s clear, we’re balancing our budget. For the record.
SHAPIRO: Well… in some sense.
