During a recent episode of “Pod Force One,” Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon expressed her disapproval of California Governor Gavin Newsom, claiming that his “failures in state leadership” make him unfit for a presidential run in 2028. She went on to assert that Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) is a more viable candidate for the Democrats.
Having once lived in California, Dillon shared her opinion with Miranda Devine, noting that Newsom is “not untested.” She recalled former President Barack Obama’s comments about Newsom, mentioning his “notable personal weaknesses and failures.”
In her remarks, Dillon also referenced an incident where a staffer of Newsom was involved in what was described as an “incendiary bombing” of a judge’s home in South Carolina, although it was later deemed accidental.
“I think there are other, more promising young politicians in the Democratic Party,” she said in the podcast. “I think AOC is one of those fictional characters created in a lab and one of the more promising characters for them,” she continued.
Dillon added, “I think that’s the bigger threat—charismatic, charming individuals like Zoran Mamdani representing the next generation.”
Recently, Newsom traveled to Washington, D.C., and although he sought wildfire recovery assistance, officials from the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA declined to meet with him.
His second year in office has been marked by contentious exchanges with the Trump administration regarding a plethora of issues, including wildfire assistance and energy policy, as well as social media clashes.
Speculations abound that Newsom is preparing for a 2028 presidential bid, seen through an increase in his social media activity that echoes Trump’s bold style, alongside a shift in his positions on controversial topics.
Meanwhile, Ocasio-Cortez is rumored to aspire either for the presidency or to challenge Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) for his seat.
As of now, Newsom leads the primary race with about 28% support, followed closely by former Vice President Kamala Harris at 20%, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at 11.5%, and Ocasio-Cortez at 8.5%.
Dillon’s Civil Rights Office has taken legal action against the Newsom administration multiple times, with the latest case involving claims that a redistricting plan violated the Equal Protection Clause.
In response to the controversies surrounding the incendiary incident, Newsom’s communications director criticized Dillon, suggesting that Dillon should issue a public apology, mentioning that their office has never threatened a judge.
Dillon recounted facing threats after being accused in the arson case, stating, “They accused me and Stephen Miller of that, and now I’m getting death threats because of it?” She indicated that she has reported some of these threats to law enforcement.
In an online statement, Dillon’s office emphasized their commitment to upholding voting laws, critiquing state judges who invalidate federal regulations.
Gardon, responding to the recent fire at the judge’s home, mentioned the history of public targeting of that judge by some Trump officials, underscoring the complications surrounding the events.
