Gavin Newsom Reflects on Pandemic Mistakes
After years of defending California’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic, Governor Gavin Newsom has acknowledged some errors made during that time.
He shared these reflections during a somewhat unconventional interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper while attempting to fly-fish in Montana.
‘I regret that, obviously,’ Newsom stated when discussing the decisions made.
Tapper suggested that a commission should be established to analyze pandemic responses, distinguishing between what worked and what didn’t.
“Sure, everyone’s a genius in hindsight,” Newsom replied, acknowledging the complexity of those decisions.
“What would you do differently?” Tapper inquired.
Newsom mentioned a chapter in his book dedicated to the chaotic situation surrounding hand sanitizer, recalling how they had to deal with price-gouging legislation concerning Purell. He recalled that many thought the pandemic was all about Purell.
Tapper reminisced about people scrubbing their groceries during the early days of the pandemic.
“Absolutely! I mean, Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis was shutting down beaches before we made that decision. The idea that we even closed beaches seems ridiculous now,” Newsom admitted.
“We definitely took too long to address school closures. While some districts were already open, larger ones, like L.A., remained shut. And yes, I regret that,” he added.
Tapper also pressed Newsom about attending a dinner at an upscale restaurant, which seemed to defy the COVID guidelines at the time. “What were you thinking?” he asked.
“That was a terrible decision. A real misstep. We were just tired, it was a friend’s birthday, and the restaurant was operating the night before. It was not in line with the rules I was advocating,” Newsom responded.
He noted, however, that he did wear a mask when entering and leaving the restaurant.
Comments from Blaze TV host Steve Deace criticized Newsom’s sincerity, suggesting that the governor’s reflections might be politically motivated as he prepares for a potential run for the Democratic nomination in 2028.
Newsom himself has hinted at considering a presidential campaign in 2028, and the entire fly-fishing interview can be watched on CNN’s YouTube channel.
