Billionaire environmentalist Tom Steyer’s ambition to hold political office has faltered before, particularly during the 2020 presidential campaign. Initially seen as a serious contender, his chances diminished dramatically in the face of debates and increased scrutiny. Now, as he aims for the California governorship, many wonder if he has learned from past mistakes or if he remains disconnected from the pressing issues facing the state.
In a recent poll conducted by the Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies, Steyer’s name comes up. He claimed a notable 10 percent—marking a substantial rise from just 1 percent six months prior. He stands just behind frontrunner Steve Hilton and ahead of established Democratic figures such as former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra and ex-Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. This positioning, while surprising, suggests that Steyer is not to be underestimated as he enters the crowded field of candidates vying to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom.
However, Steyer’s lack of engagement with current events raises concerns. When prompted by KCRA-TV’s Ashley Zavala for an assessment of Governor Newsom’s performance, Steyer hesitated, stating, “I don’t know.” His laughter only added to the incredulity of an answer that surely failed to impress voters thirsty for knowledgeable and engaged leadership. “I haven’t followed it closely enough to give him a grade,” he admitted, despite his political ambitions and extensive background in public service.
The reactions have been swift. The Orange County Republican Party criticized his response as “absolutely insane” for someone seeking the governor’s office. This statement resonates deeply, given Steyer’s long tenure in California politics, which includes time as lieutenant governor and as the mayor of San Francisco. The public expects more than ignorance, especially from candidates aiming for the highest office in state government.
Steyer is not alone in his cautious approach towards critiquing Newsom. U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell, often touted as a leading candidate, similarly faltered when asked to identify any shortcomings in Newsom’s governance. This inability—or unwillingness—to name a single misstep sends a troubling message. It hints at either a collective fear of retaliation or a profound disconnection from the realities faced by everyday Californians.
The atmosphere is particularly charged due to Newsom’s looming aspirations for the presidency in 2028. While Steyer and Swalwell may have strategic reasons for avoiding sharp critiques, it raises questions about their sincerity and commitment to addressing California’s pressing challenges. Under Newsom’s leadership, the state has grappled with severe issues like crime, housing shortages, and a homelessness crisis that seems to be worsening. While they tiptoe around the potential backlash of critique, the reality remains: Californians want change and accountability.
As candidates prepare to campaign, the axiom “if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all” proves particularly problematic in a political sphere where transparency and decisiveness are vital. In the race for governor, presumptive leaders must demonstrate an understanding of the state’s complexities. Ignoring the past eight years while aspiring for the highest office is a risky move, one that could redefine the trajectory of their campaigns.
The current political landscape highlights a necessity for authenticity and competency. Candidates like Steyer and Swalwell must grapple with their intentions and the realities of their regions. Voters deserve to know where their leaders stand prior to placing them in positions of significant power. As the primary approaches, these unanswered questions will undoubtedly shape the perceptions and decisions of countless Californians.
"*" indicates required fields
