What I Learned From Sitting With Gavin Newsom

In this episode, Ben Shapiro examines his recent conversation with California Governor Gavin Newsom, who has emerged as a potential Democratic leader as the party looks ahead to 2028. The episode begins with Shapiro detailing what he learned from sitting down with the governor, setting the stage for a nuanced discussion of contemporary political issues. Early in the interview, Newsom distances himself from his own press office, suggesting tensions within his communications team regarding messaging and public positioning. The governor also reveals disagreements with progressive figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, indicating fissures within the Democratic coalition. A significant portion of the conversation focuses on Iran policy. Newsom expresses frustration that the Democratic Party hasn't done more to support Iranian protesters, suggesting that Democratic rhetoric doesn't match the intensity of support he believes should be given to those fighting for freedom in Iran. However, when pressed on Gaza, Newsom demonstrates a pattern of dodging direct questions and avoiding clear commitments on this contentious issue. Similarly, when confronted with questions about transgender policies, the governor attempts to sidestep rather than provide straightforward answers, reflecting the political sensitivity surrounding these topics. The episode also addresses election fraud claims, with Newsom declining to take a firm stand on various assertions. Regarding income tax rates in California, Newsom must defend California's tax structure against criticism about high rates. A particularly interesting revelation comes when Newsom states that California works very directly with ICE on immigration enforcement, contradicting perceptions that Democratic-led states oppose all immigration enforcement activities. The episode then shifts to discussing responses from other political figures. Homeland Security Secretary Noem blames Minnesota Governor Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Frey for unrest in their jurisdiction. Noem expresses uncertainty about whether Trump will invoke the Insurrection Act, showing some restraint on that potential dramatic action. Governor Walz calls for turning down the temperature in political rhetoric, attempting to appeal for civility. Meanwhile, Trump advisor Stephen Miller characterizes the situation as clearly an insurgency, taking a harder line. ICE Chief Todd Lyons directly counters the idea that protests are peaceful, providing law enforcement perspective on unrest. The chief also argues that Democrats are incentivizing the continued protests through their policy positions. The episode concludes with discussion of ongoing Iran tensions and their implications for U.S. foreign policy. Throughout, Shapiro provides analysis of what these political positions reveal about Democratic strategy, internal party conflicts, and how different players are positioning themselves for the 2028 election cycle.