The California governor described White House reporters as ‘sycophants’

The California governor described White House reporters as ‘sycophants’

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the media for what he described as overly deferential coverage of Donald Trump, characterizing reporters in Oval Office press briefings as “sycophants.”

The Democratic governor — widely seen as a potential contender for the 2028 presidential race — made the remarks during a Sunday interview with progressive commentator Jack Cocchiarella.

Cocchiarella pressed Newsom on what he framed as “hesitancy” within the White House press corps to scrutinize certain subjects: namely, the 80-year-old president’s health.

“You see these press conferences in the Oval Office,” the governor replied. “You maybe have one or two reasonable reporters. They ask a question; there’s no chance for a follow-up. And then it’s seven sycophants from news outlets.”

    • homes@piefed.worldEnglish
      3·
      4 days ago

      Certainly not the best reason, I’ll give you that. It certainly sounds like a bullshit reason. Other people have gotten me drunk, and I’ve certainly wouldn’t vote for them.

      But she and I had a long conversation about a lot of things, and she was very clearly a highly intelligent person that I walked away from respecting quite a lot.

      And I don’t know any random politician that I could say that about.

      Of all the people on your ballot, could you say that about any of them?

      Before she ever ran for office, I met her. I talked to her, and I got to know her. She was pretty great.

      Maybe I don’t agree with every single one of her political positions, but I believe that she’s a real person that is gonna represent the best positions of the working person: ME, and people like me.

      I’m gonna vote for her, because I’m convinced that she represents me and my needs and interests, and those of people like me. And so should you! And unless you can present evidence to the contrary, then shut the fuck up and vote for her, too!

      For the good of you, your family, and your community!

      • ShredderFeeder@shredderfood.netEnglish
        1·
        4 days ago

        Oh I have no doubt she’s smart. And I’d happy vote for her if her name is on the ballot… But I don’t see it happening in my lifetime… While New York has made amazing progress, and she might even be able to oust Schumer for Senate… I don’t see her on a national ballot any time soon. The US isn’t ready to elect a democratic socialist, as much as they might need to. Right now the country is a bit on the left side of center-left… The only reason the right keeps winning is the left keeps splintering. Democrats are masters of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.