California Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent trip to Michigan, aimed at bolstering Democratic support in Washington, seems to have left some potential allies feeling slighted, as reported locally.
A key figure in the Democratic Party notably remarked, “I didn’t get a call” from the governor, while another expressed skepticism towards Newsom’s strict auto regulations, stating simply, “I’m a car guy.”
Given the governor’s anticipated run for the presidency in 2028, Michigan is crucial in the early stages of the primary season.
During his visit this week, Newsom campaigned for Democrats who, well, didn’t back him in the Midwest. His schedule included meetings with far-left U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, visits to black churches, barbecues, and speeches to state legislators.
However, the trip wasn’t without its setbacks. Reports indicate that some of his meetings and fundraising efforts did not pan out as intended.
It seems he did not meet with Virgie Rollins, a powerful figure in the Democratic National Committee’s Black Caucus, although a representative did invite her for a conversation.
Rollins pointed out, “All the Democratic presidents who have won elections have come to my house. I never heard from him. He never called.”
Rep. Debbie Dingell echoed similar feelings, stating she also hadn’t been contacted by Newsom, mentioning her concerns as “a car guy,” likely referencing California’s emission standards that affect Detroit’s vehicle industry.
Newsom attempted to set up a meeting with Sean Fein, the president of the United Auto Workers union, but that meeting apparently did not occur.
Additionally, two fundraising events were scrapped. Newsom reportedly decided against meeting with candidate Eli Savitt once he learned about the host’s controversial background, which might have played a role.
Another Democratic event in the state was canceled due to a lack of contributions from small donors.
Ultimately, one source characterized Newsom’s trip as a “B-minus.”
Despite this, Newsom’s team has called the visit a success, promising to arrange future meetings with those he couldn’t connect with. They highlighted his busy schedule spent engaging with various Michigan figures, including Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Senator Elissa Slotkin.
“It’s clear that Michigan Democrats were excited about the opportunity to meet with Gavin Newsom,” stated a member of his communications staff, sharing a video from one of his events.
Newsom’s last visit to Michigan was on July 4, 2024, when he campaigned for then-President Joe Biden. This recent trip was clearly strategized for supporting the Michigan Democratic Party, though observers have noted some political maneuvers at play.
David Durio, a political science professor at Oakland University, commented, “Mr. Newsom is taking every opportunity to build relationships here in Michigan.” He highlighted Michigan’s importance in the presidential race as essential for gathering political support when needed.
As a leading contender for the presidency, Newsom may indeed require all the backing he can muster, especially as polls indicate he is currently trailing former Vice President Kamala Harris.
