Newsom Slammed For Launching Podcast While California Crumbles

California Governor Gavin Newsom sparked widespread ridicule on Wednesday after announcing plans to launch a new podcast, even as his state grapples with surging crime, rampant homelessness, and ongoing recovery from devastating wildfires.

“I’m launching a NEW PODCAST. We need to change the conversation,” Newsom posted on X, formerly Twitter. “I’m talking directly with people I disagree with, people I look up to, and you the listeners.”

The announcement was met with swift backlash, with many pointing out that Newsom should focus on his actual job instead of playing podcast host.

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy hit back at Newsom, recalling his infamous French Laundry scandal:

"Let’s start with why did you throw a party for yourself at the French Laundry with no masks on in the middle of COVID, when California had just about the strictest COVID regs in the country and thousands of small businesses were going outta business because of said policies?”

Another podcast host took a sharper tone, suggesting he’d gladly join the show to discuss how Newsom is an “evil devil worshipping lizard person who uses aborted fetuses as hair gel.” While over the top, the comment underscores the frustration many feel about the governor’s priorities.

One conservative commentator noted, “The more I think about this the angrier I get. A governor shouldn’t need a podcast to communicate with his constituents. This is LITERALLY YOUR JOB EVERY DAY. If you need a podcast, you’re failing. SPOILER ALERT: you’re failing.”

As Newsom promotes his podcast, California continues to battle serious issues:

• Crime is surging, with major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles struggling to contain waves of retail thefts and violent crime.

• Homelessness is rampant, with tent cities expanding and public spaces becoming increasingly unsafe.

• Wildfire recovery remains slow, leaving communities in ashes while Newsom diverts attention to his latest vanity project.

Adding to the criticism, U.S. Census Bureau data reveals that California has lost over 500,000 residents in just the last two years, as people flee to states with lower crime, lower taxes, and a higher quality of life.

Newsom’s new venture feels like a transparent attempt to polish his image, especially as rumors swirl about his national ambitions. However, many see it as a slap in the face to Californians who need real solutions, not more soundbites.

In a state where one in three residents are considering leaving, according to a Berkeley IGS Poll, Newsom’s detachment from reality is nothing short of alarming. It’s hard to imagine that a podcast will change the conversation when the real issues are out on the streets, not in a recording studio.

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