Staff Reports
Governor Gavin Newsom is getting heat from his own party after making controversial comments on his new podcast. He talked with conservative figures like Michael Savage and Charlie Kirk, surprising many by agreeing with their views on transgender athletes and immigration. Democrats and LGBTQ groups are furious, saying he’s betraying their values to look more moderate.
Newsom told Kirk that letting biological males compete in girls’ sports is “unfair,” even though California law supports transgender athletes. The Human Rights Campaign blasted him, saying you can’t win elections by “selling out” vulnerable communities. Conservatives cheered Newsom for finally admitting what they’ve said for years—that woke policies hurt Democrats.
When Savage blamed election losses on “brainwashing” kids about transgender issues, Newsom didn’t argue. Savage said schools are pushing radical gender ideas, driving away moms who vote Democrat. Newsom nodded along, even as Savage slammed California’s high taxes and homeless camps. Conservatives praised Savage for speaking “common sense” about protecting children.
Newsom once bragged about defying state law to allow gay marriage. Now he’s backing away from transgender rights, leaving liberals confused. Critics say he’s flip-flopping to appeal to middle America ahead of a 2028 presidential run. Conservatives called it a smart move, saying Democrats went too far left on culture wars.
State Democrats ripped Newsom for platforming “bigots” like Kirk. Senator Scott Wiener said talking to Kirk was “outrageous,” while LGBTQ activists said Newsom “failed” transgender youth. But conservatives laughed, saying Democrats are mad he’s finally telling the truth about biology in sports.
Newsom’s podcast guests include far-right figures like Steve Bannon, who spread election lies. He let Bannon trash Senator Warren as “Pocahontas” without pushback. Conservatives said Newsom is wisely listening to “real Americans” instead of coastal elites. Liberals accused him of normalizing extremists to boost his image.
The governor claims he wants “civil dialogue” with opponents. But critics say he’s just copying conservative media tactics to seem centrist. Podcasts like Bannon’s thrive on outrage, not compromise. Newsom’s weak pushback made him look desperate for MAGA approval, not principled.
Democrats worry Newsom’s shift shows the party is lost. After losing voters over transgender policies and crime, some think he’s right to course-correct. But conservatives say it’s too late—voters see through his phony “moderate” act. Either way, Newsom’s podcast proves even blue-state leaders know wokeism doesn’t win elections.
