California Governor Gavin Newsom took center stage on Fox News in an intense interview with host Sean Hannity, defending President Joe Biden’s fitness for a second term while dodging questions about his own political ambitions. Newsom affirmed his confidence in Biden’s cognitive and physical health, citing frequent communications with the president. However, when Hannity pressed him about whether he’s been urged to challenge Biden in 2024, Newsom remained tight-lipped, simply stating, “I’m not answering.”
Despite reiterating his full support for Biden, Newsom has raised eyebrows with his growing national profile. Fresh off a landslide re-election as governor in 2022, he launched a political action committee aimed at backing Democratic candidates in deep-red states like Arkansas and Mississippi. Newsom has also proposed a 28th Amendment to strengthen federal gun control laws, further fueling speculation about his future aspirations.
Newsom Criticizes GOP Policies While Acknowledging Trump’s Role During COVID
During the fiery exchange, Hannity challenged Newsom on several fronts, including California’s population loss and high tax rates. Hannity argued that these issues demonstrate the failure of Democratic policies in the state. Newsom pushed back, emphasizing that the top tax rate affects only the wealthy and predated his tenure. He defended his fiscal record, highlighting his balanced budgets and opposition to new taxes on the rich.
The conversation then shifted to immigration, with Hannity defending Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ controversial use of taxpayer money to transport migrants to California. Newsom, who said he personally spoke with the migrants, called the actions misleading and exploitative. However, he did offer unexpected praise for former President Donald Trump, commending his non-political approach to California during the COVID-19 pandemic, a statement that sparked criticism from the left.
The wide-ranging interview covered everything from the state of the economy to immigration, and left no stone unturned. Although their exchange was often contentious, Newsom and Hannity found some common ground—though there is clearly more to be said, with Hannity teasing a second part of the interview to air later in the week.
Source : https://www.usnews.com/news/entertainment/articles/2023-06-12/california-gov-newsom-spars-with-fox-news-host-hannity-over-biden-immigration-and-the-economy