California Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent podcast venture has sparked intense debate, drawing criticism from conservative commentator Larry Elder who argues former President Donald Trump better understands American voters. Newsom launched “This Is Gavin Newsom” to engage conservative figures like Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, but the debut episode backfired by amplifying right-wing talking points while exposing Democratic divisions.
The governor positioned his show as a platform for bipartisan dialogue, inviting MAGA-aligned guests to discuss issues like tariffs and trans athletes. However, his first episode with Kirk became a public relations disaster. Newsom conceded ground on key issues, agreeing with Kirk that allowing transgender athletes in women’s sports is “deeply unfair” — a stance contradicting California’s progressive policies and angering LGBTQ+ advocates. Critics within his party blasted the move, with the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus calling his remarks “anti-transgender”.
Larry Elder, the 2021 recall candidate whom Newsom previously painted as a Trump proxy, dismissed the podcast as a desperate rebranding effort. He argued Trump’s enduring popularity stems from policies addressing inflation, border security, and energy costs — issues Newsom allegedly overlooks. Elder highlighted Trump’s success in leveraging alternative media like podcasts to bypass traditional outlets, contrasting it with Newsom’s awkward attempts to court conservative influencers.
The podcast controversy has exacerbated tensions between Newsom and his base. While the governor aimed to counter Republican messaging, his approach — including asking Kirk for campaign advice — was widely panned as naive. Analysts note Newsom’s team misjudged the risks of platforming opponents without a cohesive counter-narrative, allowing Kirk to dominate discussions on trans rights and Democratic “cringe” social media strategies.
Newsom’s missteps have raised questions about his presidential viability. While some allies defend the podcast as bold outreach to disillusioned voters, critics warn it reinforces perceptions of Democratic weakness. Meanwhile, Trump’s team sees an opportunity to frame Newsom as out-of-touch with middle America — a narrative Elder and Kirk aggressively promote through conservative media channels.
