Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, finds himself at a crossroads as he eyes a potential presidential campaign for 2028. In recent remarks, he suggested that the American electorate prefers assertive, if flawed, leaders like Donald Trump over those who adhere to traditional political decorum. This assertion underscores a troubling trend in his political strategy—one that shifts blame and avoids accountability, all while his own record is marred by unmet commitments and policy failures.
A Shift Towards Trumpism
In a candid interview, Newsom claimed, “Given the choice … the American people always support strong and wrong versus weak and right.” This sentiment has led him to adopt a brash, confrontational style that mirrors Trump’s, utilising social media to hurl insults and engage in mockery. As he contemplates a run for the White House, his attempts to channel Trump have garnered attention and temporarily improved his poll standings, positioning him as a frontrunner among Democrats. However, the scrutiny of his governorship is mounting, revealing a history of grand promises that have largely gone unfulfilled.
Failed Promises in California
Newsom’s gubernatorial tenure, which began in 2019, has been punctuated by a series of ambitious pledges that have faltered. His campaign was launched under the banner of “courage for change,” a direct challenge to his predecessor, Jerry Brown. Among his bold declarations was a commitment to establish a single-payer healthcare system in California. Critics labelled this vision as unrealistic, to which Newsom responded with disdain. Yet, when faced with the realities of governance, he retreated from this promise, opting instead for watered-down reforms that have left many disillusioned.
Housing was another area where Newsom projected strong intentions. He vowed to construct 3.5 million new housing units by 2025, but has since retracted this goal, characterising it as a “stretch goal.” Data from CalMatters indicates that as of 2022, only a meagre 13% of those homes have even been approved, let alone built. Furthermore, his commitment to appoint a “homeless czar” to tackle California’s escalating homelessness crisis disintegrated, leading to a situation where he assumed the role himself but ultimately shifted blame to local authorities as the problem worsened.
The Illusion of Strength
While Newsom presents himself as a decisive figure, his record tells a different story. His opposition to the death penalty saw him declare a moratorium, yet he hesitated to commute existing sentences, leaving his successor with the option to resume executions. His handling of the COVID-19 pandemic began with commendable decisiveness, but as political pressures mounted, he reversed course, leading to a surge in infections and deaths following his rushed reopening strategy.
Moreover, after the public outcry surrounding the death of George Floyd, Newsom took steps towards establishing a Reparations Task Force, only to later veto significant legislation aimed at providing reparations. This inconsistency has raised questions about his commitment to racial justice, especially as the political climate shifts.
A Hypocrisy of Leadership
Newsom’s critiques of other leaders as “pathetic” ring hollow when viewed in the context of his own political manoeuvring. Past praises for Trump’s handling of the pandemic and his ongoing alliances with tech billionaires, including Trump supporters, further complicate his stance. His veto of a comprehensive AI safety bill, in favour of a narrower version, highlights his alignment with corporate interests over worker protections—a decision that could alienate crucial voter demographics.
As he positions himself for a potential presidential run, Newsom’s theatrics and strategic dishonesty raise concerns about his suitability as a leader. His recent attempts to engage with right-wing figures and the media’s fascination with his antics only serve to mask the deeper issues that characterise his political career.
Why it Matters
As Gavin Newsom contemplates a 2028 presidential bid, the juxtaposition of his ambitious rhetoric against a backdrop of underachievement presents a formidable challenge. Voters are increasingly discerning, seeking authentic leadership that embodies competence and moral clarity. The outcome of Newsom’s political journey may well hinge on whether he can reconcile his past shortcomings with the demands of a nation yearning for genuine reform, rather than the hollow promises that have defined much of his time in office. In a political landscape shaped by disillusionment, the question remains: will Americans embrace a leader who has mastered the art of performance over substance?