Gavin Newsom, California’s governor, seems to think he’s the king of progressive policies, strutting around as if the world is applauding his every move. With a flair for embracing radical agendas, Newsom has pushed California to the extremes on everything from climate change to criminal justice reform.

But while he’s been the darling of left-wing circles nationwide, campaigning for the likes of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, his popularity within his own state is on shaky ground. Newsom was nearly recalled in 2022, a sign that his home crowd isn’t exactly thrilled with his leadership.

In fact, it looks like his fellow Democrats aren’t too keen on being seen with him either. Yes, the man who once thought he’d be California’s next great political export is finding himself avoided by his own allies.

As election season heats up, two key Democrats challenging vulnerable Republican incumbents in California’s Central Valley seem to be steering clear of their party’s figurehead. Why? It might have something to do with Newsom’s sinking approval ratings in that region.

From Washington Examiner:
California Democrats fighting to oust vulnerable Republican congressional incumbents from the House of Representatives are distancing themselves from Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA)…

Coming under two weeks before Election Day, the report indicates Newsom’s California colleagues have moved to disassociate themself from Newsom as he holds particularly high disapproval ratings in California’s Central Valley region.

Central Valley Candidates Avoid Newsom Like the Plague

According to a report by the Sacramento Bee, Democrats Rudy Salas and Adam Gray, both vying for congressional seats, have been doing their best to avoid Governor Newsom. Salas, who is trying to unseat Republican Rep. David Valadao in a tight race, hasn’t campaigned with Newsom since March, even though the governor has endorsed him.

Meanwhile, Gray, who is challenging Republican Rep. John Duarte in another closely watched race, hasn’t been spotted with Newsom at all this year. That’s a pretty telling move, considering Newsom is the top Democrat in the state.

So, why the sudden distancing? Well, according to a Public Policy Institute of California poll, 57% of Central Valley residents disapprove of Newsom’s job performance. The reasons aren’t hard to figure out—crime, the economy, and other issues that matter to everyday folks have worsened under his watch.

Only 36% of voters in the region say they trust the state government most of the time, which is a pretty bleak statistic for anyone associated with Newsom’s administration.

Newsom’s Popularity Crisis: No Help to Democrats

Even political science experts are weighing in on why candidates like Salas and Gray are keeping their distance. Tom Holyoke, a professor at California State University, Fresno, bluntly stated that Newsom wouldn’t be “much of a boost” for Democrats in the Central Valley.

“Most Valley Democrats don’t love him,” Holyoke explained. And the people who might be motivated by a Gavin Newsom endorsement? They’re already planning to vote for Salas or Gray, so Newsom’s presence wouldn’t sway undecided voters anyway.

Republicans are having a field day with this. The National Republican Congressional Committee wasted no time in pointing out that while Salas might be trying to distance himself from Newsom now, he’s had plenty of nice things to say about the governor in the past.

In a press release, they reminded voters that Salas once called Newsom a “champion” and credited him for “helping us control the U.S. House of Representatives.” It seems Salas may want to rethink his relationship with California’s top Democrat, especially in a race as tight as this one.

Newsom’s Downfall: A Symptom of Bigger Issues

Gavin Newsom’s decline in popularity is a symptom of a much larger problem. His radical policies may have earned him applause from the far left, but they’ve alienated a significant portion of the state’s population.

In the Central Valley, where people care about economic growth, public safety, and basic government competence, Newsom’s progressive agenda just doesn’t resonate. Whether it’s the rising crime rates or the spiraling cost of living, Newsom’s California is a tough sell for many voters.

And it’s not just California where Newsom’s star is fading. His national profile may have been boosted by his frequent appearances on behalf of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, but if he’s unpopular in his own backyard, how can he hope to be taken seriously on the national stage?

Newsom may have dreams of higher office, but right now, he can’t even campaign effectively in his own state.

Key Takeaways

• Gavin Newsom’s popularity is sinking, especially in California’s Central Valley.
• Democrats Rudy Salas and Adam Gray are distancing themselves from Newsom as they face tough congressional races.
• Newsom’s decline is a warning sign for Democrats who have embraced his brand of radical politics.

Source: Washington Examiner