Democratic Strategist Questions Katie Porter’s Qualifications

Julie Roginski, a Democratic strategist, expressed doubts on Thursday about California gubernatorial candidate Katie Porter’s fitness for the role. She stated that Porter’s recent behavior suggests she may not be capable of handling the responsibilities of governor.

Porter attracted attention in September when a video surfaced showing her abruptly threatening to walk out of an interview after a reporter asked how she would connect with voters who support President Donald Trump. In her response during an appearance on MSNBC’s “The Chris Jansing Report,” Roginski asserted that this incident disqualifies Porter as a serious candidate.

“That’s really not a good look at all. Running a nonprofit focused on positive conduct, this certainly doesn’t set a good example,” Roginski commented. “This isn’t just a workplace. According to former staff, there are ongoing issues with her behavior. We should be able to treat people with respect. There’s no need to mimic Trump. Reporters are just doing their jobs; it’s not about you. If you’re not interested in engaging, that’s your choice. But it raises questions about her transparency. Honestly, it indicates she might not be suited for governing a large state.”

Roginski continued, “I can’t speak to her policies; I’m not from California and don’t closely follow state matters. However, if someone treats their fellow voters this way, it makes me question whether they should be in public office.”

In 2021, additional footage emerged showing Porter yelling at a staff member while attempting to correct his remarks regarding electric vehicles, telling him to “get out of here” and “stay away from my shot.”

Former Republican communications director Tara Setmeyer weighed in as well, labeling Porter as “unfit” for the governorship, implying that her treatment of staff might reflect how she views constituents.

Setmeyer remarked, “If she treats her staff in such a way, one can only imagine her thoughts about voters.”

Allegations of verbal abuse towards staff and other concerning behaviors have been directed at Porter, with reports indicating that she had a troubling domestic situation. One claim involved her allegedly throwing a bowl of hot potatoes at her then-husband.

Currently, Porter is leading in the Democratic primary but is trailing Republican hopeful Steve Hilton by six percentage points. She had previously attempted a Senate run in March 2024, but that bid ended in defeat against Democratic Senator Adam Schiff.