Sean Ryan Interviews Gavin Newsom on Gun Laws

During a recent interview, podcaster Sean Ryan questioned California Governor Gavin Newsom about the implications of firearm background checks for veterans. Released on Monday, the discussion delved into Newsom’s proposal for a 28th amendment aimed at codifying aspects of California’s state law, notably “universal background checks” and restrictions on certain semi-automatic firearms that are deemed to be cosmetic.

Ryan surprised Newsom by presenting him with a California-compliant Sig-Sauer P365 semi-automatic pistol. The governor, visibly taken aback, seemed uncertain as he handled the weapon at the beginning of their four-hour conversation on “Shawn Ryan Shaw.”

“It’s a California-compliant Sig-Sauer P365 macro,” Ryan remarked, impressed. “Ah, amazing.” He then playfully asked Newsom if he liked it, joking about wanting to hand it over to TSA.

California is known for having some of the strictest gun laws in the U.S., including requirements for a “safety certificate” to buy handguns and bans on certain semi-automatic firearms, as highlighted by the National Rifle Association.

Ryan mentioned his own experience with firearms, noting how surprising it was to receive the pistol as a gift. “This is great. Honestly, people might not expect me to appreciate this,” he said.

Newsom, defending his stance on gun safety, asserted, “I’m not anti-gun. I believe most folks, whether on the right or the left, agree on the need for sensible gun safety measures. Background checks should be part of that conversation.” He emphasized the importance of age appropriateness in these discussions.

It seemed Newsom was caught off guard by the unexpected “crazy” gift. “I honestly didn’t see that coming. A hat would’ve been what I expected,” he chuckled.

He went on to point out how California reportedly has lower gun death rates compared to many red states. Earlier this year, he initiated a Political Action Committee aimed at addressing issues like gun control and abortion, especially in states considered more conservative.

Newsom stressed that the state has seen substantial reductions in gun mortality rates over recent years, fuelled by data and evidence. While he respects the Second Amendment rights, he expressed the necessity of discussing the effectiveness of background checks, particularly concerning individuals with a history of abuse.

Ryan raised concerns about veterans possibly being adversely affected by background checks, especially those diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He noted, “I keep firearms for protection… When the topic of background checks arises, I can’t help but think of people struggling with mental health.” He seemed to ponder the implications of policies that might complicate these veterans’ lives.

Notably, Newsom signed SB2 on September 26, 2023, which imposes significant restrictions on where concealed weapons can be carried. This law faced legal challenges, with a federal judge labeling it “abominable” and rebelling against various amendments.