California Progressives Concerned About Newsom’s Approach
California progressives are finding it challenging to engage conservatives, especially with speculation surrounding Governor Gavin Newsom’s potential presidential run in 2028. One progressive remarked that while Newsom has made decisions that upset the left, the more pressing issue seems to be his “political choices.”
“The significant concern is about who he chooses to engage with, like Mr. Kirk and Mr. Bannon,” noted Elizabeth Ashford, a communications advisor from California. She previously worked as chief of staff for Kamala Harris when Harris served as California’s attorney general.
“Regardless of the framing, a sitting governor should feel entitled to provide them with a platform. However, such decisions are tricky for progressives,” she added.
During a recent podcast episode titled “This Is Gavin Newsom,” Newsom voiced agreement with Ben Shapiro, founder of the Daily Wire, that transgender topics are major deal-breakers for many Democrats. In a conversation with Charlie Kirk, he touched on fairness in women’s sports, stating quite emphatically, “It’s very unfair.”
Ashford represents a minority of California progressives willing to discuss Newsom’s potential presidential ambitions. A Democratic strategist, while speaking to The Hill, highlighted the nuances Newsom faces. “He has to navigate perceptions he’s too far left while also appealing to his base,” the strategist explained.
It’s notable that while Newsom has found favor with certain liberal groups due to his criticisms of Trump, as primary seasons draw closer, voters may reassess his track record and the policies that have left numerous Californian groups feeling let down.
Moreover, there’s skepticism about how Newsom’s actions, like pushing for housing deregulation and changes to worker rights, have both frustrated and angered parts of the progressive community.
Ashford pointed out that discontent arises when governors pass legislation. “Sure, there’s frustration regarding some of the governor’s choices, like easing environmental reviews for housing. But that’s par for the course; we can’t please everyone, and we shouldn’t attempt to,” she remarked.
As of now, Newsom’s office has not provided any comment on these issues.
