California Governor Gavin Newsom’s potential run for president in 2028 is under fire, particularly from comedian Andrew Schulz. On a recent episode of “The Breakfast Club,” Schulz critiqued Newsom’s leadership by pointing out the significant population loss in California. His comments have stirred conversations about the governor’s electability as he prepares for a possible presidential campaign.
“Gavin can’t say, ‘Look at my work, look how great it is,’” Schulz asserted. “People are leaving the state! That’s all the evidence you need to know you’re not doing a good job.” This straightforward assessment underscores a growing concern among Californians about Newsom’s ability to maintain a positive legacy.
The figures support Schulz’s claims. Since 2020, over 1.5 million residents have left California. U.S. Census data reveals the state has experienced population decline for three consecutive years, with more than 500,000 people exiting amid rising costs and other pressures. This situation marks California as having the steepest population decrease among all states. Natural increases and immigration have helped somewhat, but the outflow of domestic residents remains a significant challenge.
Reasons for this exodus are familiar. Many cite high taxes, skyrocketing housing costs, and increasing crime rates as driving forces behind their decision to relocate. With median home prices in California hovering above $830,000, families find themselves priced out of urban centers like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Businesses are also voting with their feet. A study from the Hoover Institution found that between 2018 and 2022, 352 companies relocated their headquarters from California. The trend includes tech giants, manufacturing firms, and smaller enterprises seeking a friendlier economic environment in states like Texas and Florida. In 2021 alone, California lost more than 75 corporate headquarters, further illustrating the challenges facing the state under Newsom’s watch.
Schulz emphasized this trend as disqualifying for any presidential ambitions. “Why would they want to stay in the country you’d run if you ran for president?” he asked, spotlighting a critical question about leadership accountability.
In response, Governor Newsom has made efforts to cast California in a positive light. He argues that the state possesses a staggering gross state product of over $3.9 trillion, placing it as the fifth-largest economy globally. Newsom claims that California’s strengths in innovation, diversity, and climate leadership make it a model for success.
Despite these assertions, critics argue that such claims do little to alleviate the everyday struggles of Californians. Schulz ridiculed the governor’s attempts to reframe the narrative, accusing him of abandoning key issues under political pressure. Focusing on Newsom’s retreat from controversial stances, Schulz pointed out, “You see how quick he is to distance himself… it was just all about politics for you.”
The governor’s aspirations beyond California are not new. His recent tours through swing states like Georgia and South Carolina were ostensibly to support fellow Democrats, but many interpreted them as groundwork for his presidential ambitions in 2028. Additionally, the launch of his podcast and targeted outreach to younger audiences reflect his attempt to tap into demographic shifts—particularly with voters who are beginning to lean Republican.
As electoral dynamics shift, Democratic strategists watch closely. In the 2024 election, President Donald Trump achieved a 12-point swing among men ages 18 to 29 compared to 2020, suggesting a growing disconnect between the Democratic Party and younger male voters. Analysts attribute this shift to the feeling that party elites are out of touch with the needs of everyday Americans. Schulz echoed these sentiments, highlighting how Democrats, including Newsom, seem detached from working-class issues.
“They pretend to give a [expletive] about you guys… but they get patted on the back for pretending to do it,” Schulz argued about liberal elites. He pointed out that if Democrats addressed class issues directly, they would have a better chance of winning the election, yet many leaders fear alienating wealthy donors.
Though Schulz and Charlamagne Tha God may not be political analysts, their widespread platforms connect with younger audiences who are still determining their political allegiances. Their criticisms of Newsom reflect a broader disenchantment with establishment politicians who seem unable to connect with the core concerns of their constituents.
As Newsom navigates his potential presidential run, he faces scrutiny not only from comedians but also from a populace that feels abandoned. The impact of Schulz’s remarks could reach beyond mere entertainment, framing Newsom not as a transformative leader but as one whose governance is increasingly challenged by voters who are choosing to leave California.
The discussion around Newsom’s future and California’s demographic shifts will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the political landscape as the 2028 elections approach. As sentiments continue to evolve, the challenges facing the governor could very well define his legacy—or lack thereof.
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