Newsom Hosts Steve Bannon, Charlie Kirk on New Podcast, Draws Democratic Criticisms

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) recently launched a podcast, This is Gavin Newsom, where he has sat for interviews with notable right-wing figures, but the effort has drawn criticism from liberals.

The Details: Newsom has interviewed guests like Steve Bannon (Right bias), Charlie Kirk (Right), and Newsmax (Right) host Michael Savage.

For Context: Featuring Kirk as his first guest, the show immediately rose to be a top three podcast on Apple. In the episode, Newsom notably said it is “deeply unfair” for transgender women to compete in women’s sports.

Key Quotes: Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear told Politico (Lean Left) that “bringing on different voices is great,” but giving Bannon “oxygen on any platform, ever, anywhere” is wrong. California Democratic strategist Steven Maviglio told Washington Post “I can't comprehend what he’s trying to accomplish if he's going to run for president as a Democrat.” In late February, when Newsom announced the podcast, he called it an “essential” part of his job and “opportunity to communicate with people directly.”

How The Media Covered It: Outlets across the spectrum claimed the podcast is an effort for Newsom to improve his image before a potential 2028 presidential run. Newsmax included perspectives from Savage and experts interviewed by The Hill (Center) and Washington Post in its coverage. Newsweek highlighted polling from Capitol Weekly (Center) which found Newsom’s favorability rating dropped since launching the podcast.

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