Overview

• Newsom's podcast, 'This Is Gavin Newsom,' features interviews with right-wing figures like Steve Bannon and Charlie Kirk, sparking controversy within his party.
• The governor's comments on transgender athletes and his perceived deference to conservative guests have led to criticism from progressives and LGBTQ+ advocates.
• Polling shows a 10-point drop in Newsom's favorability ratings among California voters since the podcast's launch, with liberals particularly disapproving.
• The podcast is widely interpreted as part of Newsom's strategy to appeal to moderate and disillusioned voters ahead of a possible 2028 presidential bid.
• Critics argue that Newsom's focus on national ambitions detracts from addressing pressing issues in California, such as wildfires, homelessness, and infrastructure challenges.