California Governor Gavin Newsom is facing criticism for describing his upbringing as financially challenging, especially since he has close ties to the wealthy Getty family, one of the most influential families globally. Critics point out that while people might assume Newsom had a privileged background, the reality is more nuanced. “Yes, he had access and privilege, but not necessarily money. His childhood is a study in contradictions,” says a piece in Vogue, which highlights his relationship with the Gettys.
Newsom’s memoir, titled “Youth in a Hurry: Memoirs of Discovery,” is set to be released on February 24th. Vogue recently featured him in a detailed profile, alongside an iconic photograph by Annie Leibovitz. As many speculate about his potential run for the presidency in 2028, he is preparing to step down as governor in 2027 due to term limits.
Some progressive Californians have found his recent comments on conservatives during a podcast to be, well, rather harsh. In the Vogue article, the write-up begins with a lighthearted observation about Newsom’s charm and confidence as he prepares for his final State of the State address.
Critics from the right have targeted Newsom for attempting to present himself as someone from a troubled background. His father served as an advisor to the Getty family, and Newsom’s childhood included vacations funded by them. Conservatives argue this connection undermines his portrayal of hardship.
The profile also notes how deeply intertwined Newsom’s career is with the Getty family, particularly Gordon Getty, who played a pivotal role in supporting Newsom’s business ventures. This long-standing connection has further fueled skepticism around Newsom’s depiction of his early life.
Responses from conservative commentators have echoed the sentiment that Newsom’s narrative feels disconnected from reality. One critic quipped that Newsom doesn’t seem to grasp what real poverty is, while another remarked that his insights into struggle may be lost on those who actually live it.
Newsom has already faced backlash for labeling his financial situation as tough, recalling how his mother juggled multiple jobs. “It was all about making ends meet,” he recalled during a podcast appearance, reminiscing about their life. His comments have done little to silence his critics.
Fox News Digital reached out to Newsom’s office for a response, but there has yet to be an official comment.
