In this episode of Jon Fleischman’s California politics commentary, we dive into Governor Gavin Newsom’s contradictory governance. While positioning himself as a moderate, business-friendly leader on the national stage, Newsom’s progressive policies in California tell a different story. Jon breaks down the state’s budget crisis, driven by a bloated public workforce, generous union contracts, and costly programs like healthcare for undocumented immigrants. He critiques the $10 billion spent on this initiative and the infamous high-speed rail project, which has been dubbed a "train to nowhere." Newsom’s economic record, from signing AB5 to supporting massive borrowing and tax hikes, contradicts his pro-business claims. His push for aggressive carbon emission policies has led to sky-high gas and energy prices, burdening Californians. Jon also highlights Newsom’s social policies, like supporting biological men in women’s sports, and his budget maneuvers, such as symbolic cuts to Medi-Cal and immigrant healthcare, that are unlikely to materialize. Tune in as Jon calls out Newsom’s political posturing ahead of a potential presidential run.
