A recently released video captures California Democratic gubernatorial candidate Katie Porter showing frustration with staff over harsh studio lighting before a television interview. The footage, which surfaced on social media, dates back to 2021 and has revived scrutiny of Porter, who has already been the focus of two other controversial videos this week.
In the clip, Porter, then a U.S. Representative, appears on a Zoom call as she voices her displeasure about the bright lights. “Oh yes, this is why I didn’t want to do — I need the lights off, the bright lights,” she complains, turning to staff in the room. The tension escalates when she exclaims, “I’m so sorry, but I am about to get on — Bernard, I need you to turn these off… These, that are killing me.” Despite her visible agitation, she jovially reassures others on the call, “Hang on one second, everybody!”
But moments later, as the lighting situation worsens, her demeanor shifts. Porter, appearing more frustrated, says, “Okay, everybody, I’m… not that dark,” as she looks around the room. Her discomfort leads her to briefly disable her camera and microphone before returning from a different room, explaining, “I am in a TV studio, getting ready to go on Cuomo,” referring to the host Chris Cuomo.
This resurfaced video follows two earlier viral moments that have shed light on Porter’s temperamental disposition. Earlier this week, footage showed her lashing out at a reporter during an interview, attempting to wrap up the conversation abruptly. Another clip released by Politico depicted Porter berating a staffer who accidentally entered her shot while she spoke with Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm about climate issues, where she infamously shouted, “Get out of my f—ing shot!”
Porter’s recent public outbursts raise questions about her temperament and suitability for leadership, especially in the competitive landscape of California politics. The consistent emergence of such clips suggests that her emotional volatility may become a focal point for voters as the election approaches.
Katie Porter did not respond to a request for comment following the release of this latest video.
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