California Governor Gavin Newsom is making headlines as he prepares for a presidential run in 2028. However, his record as governor raises serious questions about his viability as a candidate. Conservative writer Mollie Hemingway recently highlighted this paradox on FOX News’ Ingraham Angle. She pointed out two key advantages Newsom possesses, despite his dismal governance in California.
First, Hemingway mentioned the support Newsom gets from liberal media outlets. She argued that the media has a history of downplaying the negatives surrounding his administration while amplifying his positives. “Even though he has a horrible track record of governing California, he still has the large institutional media willing to lie about that track record,” Hemingway asserted. This claim emphasizes how the media landscape can shape public perception. By focusing on select narratives, the media can bolster candidates who might not fare well under closer scrutiny.
Second, Hemingway characterized Newsom’s approach to truthfulness as almost pathological. “Gavin Newsom is almost a sociopath in how willing he is to lie from moment to moment about anything in order to gain advantage,” she stated. While this trait is troubling, Hemingway believes it may serve Newsom well in a crowded Democratic primary. Politicians often rely on their public personas, but Newsom’s apparent ease with dishonesty sets him apart from many of his peers. This adaptability might enable him to navigate tough political waters more effectively than others, even if it’s not a quality to be admired.
Laura Ingraham echoed Hemingway’s concerns when she remarked, “I don’t see how that’s going to fly at all.” This skepticism about Newsom’s prospects underscores the contrast between his political ambitions and the realities of his leadership in California, a state facing multiple crises under his watch. As Ingraham noted, California is a massive state with a formidable economy, but the state’s current condition paints a picture that isn’t easy for Newsom to defend.
Despite these challenges, new media platforms like Twitter/X are emerging as counterweights to the traditional narratives presented by legacy outlets. Hemingway pointed out that the landscape is evolving and public discontent with the mainstream media is at an all-time high. “Establishment media can’t get away with nearly as much as they used to,” she stated. This observation hints at a potential shift in how information is disseminated and consumed, suggesting that voters may be more discerning than in past election cycles.
As Newsom gears up for 2028, these dynamics could shape the discourse around his candidacy. His ability to navigate scrutiny from both the press and the public will be essential. The upcoming election might reveal whether his advantages can withstand the weight of his record. In the fast-changing political arena, where the truth can be malleable, how voters respond to candidates like Newsom remains to be seen. The next presidential election will test not only the candidates but the institutions that cover them.
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