Newsom on Dems: ‘We have a messaging problem’

The discussion of Democratic ethos and strategy came just weeks before November’s midterm elections. Newsom has sounded well in his own re-election bid, but in Congress a number of his fellow Democrats are expected to face a largely uphill battle.

While Newsom acknowledged the party also had substantive challenges, he said Democrats could do a better job of messaging on issues like crime. For example, nearly all of the states with the 10 highest murder rates are Republican-run, Newsom said, « and we’re losing that message. »

When asked if President Joe Biden’s efforts to find a unifying national message were « a mad dash, » Newsom said, « I think the president learned that the hard way. »

« I mean, he’s wired for a different world, but that world is gone, » the governor continued, saying of Biden, « He wants to find our best angels. »

Newsom also addressed his recent ad buys in red states, calling the actions of Republican governors frustrating and worthy of challenge across state lines; he specifically called out Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for DeSantis’ recent flight of migrants from Texas to other parts of the country.

He denied that the intention behind these ads was to promote his profile ahead of a possible future presidential bid.

« No, and then no, and then, no, no, no, » Newsom replied.