The Ben Shapiro Show Ep. 2348 - What I Learned From Sitting With Gavin Newsom
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Jan 16, 2026 A deep dive into Gavin Newsom's potential as the Democratic leader for 2028 reveals his self-proclaimed moderate stance vs. California's challenging realities. Discussions also tackle controversial issues like ICE's role and the constraints around housing promises. Newsom’s responses on sensitive topics like Iran and Ukraine signal a strategic political positioning, while debates over trans policies showcase his hesitation. As Newsom distances himself from radical calls within his party, the looming questions about his electability hang heavily in the air.
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Face-To-Face With Gavin Newsom
- Ben Shapiro flew to Sacramento and recorded a two-hour conversation with Gavin Newsom at the governor's mansion.
- The interview mixed cordiality and combative questioning about Newsom's record and national ambitions.
Moderate Rhetoric vs. Extreme Record
- Newsom tries to brand himself moderate to win the general electorate while avoiding responsibility for California's extreme policies.
- Shapiro argues that this tension between rhetoric and record will trouble Democrats in a national race.
Avoid Overpromising Government Fixes
- Avoid overpromising government solutions that the system cannot deliver.
- Shapiro warns that promises without feasible implementation breed public frustration and distrust.
