California Governor Gavin Newsom voiced his worry about what he described as the “overemphasis” on former President Trump’s hush money trial during a recent interview. He noted that this focus could potentially benefit Trump electorally.
MSNBC host Jen Psaki brought up the topic with Newsom, mentioning a “chorus” of people who think the trial is unintentionally elevating Trump’s political position, a perspective she admitted was “driving her crazy.”
Gov. Gavin Newsom worries about 'overindulgence' and 'obsession' with Trump hush money trial: 'Less is more' https://t.co/WyFwd9IeWg
— Fox News (@FoxNews) April 21, 2024
California Governor Gavin Newsom voiced his worry about what he described as the “overemphasis” on former President Trump’s hush money trial during a recent interview. He noted that this focus could potentially benefit Trump electorally.
MSNBC host Jen Psaki brought up the topic with Newsom, mentioning a “chorus” of people who think the trial is unintentionally elevating Trump’s political position, a perspective she admitted was “driving her crazy.”
He highlighted the deep repercussions of a criminal trial, contrasting it with the importance of democracy and recent legal changes such as the Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade.
Newsom also stressed that the focus on Trump should not divert attention from the importance of RFK Jr. securing ballot access in Michigan, a key swing state.
Gavin Newsom on Jen Psaki's program stating that RFK Jr. is someone that the Biden campaign needs to take seriously:
— Eric Abbenante (@EricAbbenante) April 21, 2024
"How worried are you about the potential impact of RFK Jr on President Biden's reelection chances?"
"I think you have to take that very seriously."
Then the Biden… pic.twitter.com/wkOQQc34k8
Referring to Trump’s tendencies, he stated, “I generally believe that focusing less on individuals who actively seek attention, regardless of their motives or situation, is the better approach.”
Psaki began the discussion by noting that Trump would need to “sit quietly through his criminal trial” this week, as jury selection concluded and opening arguments were set to start on Monday.
Psaki also asked Newsom about RFK Jr.’s candidacy and whether he thought it might negatively impact Biden’s chances.
Newsom warned that if RFK Jr. manages to get on the ballot in other states, especially swing states, Democrats need to take it “very, very seriously.”
“He’s a Kennedy. We hold Kennedys in high regard, at least I do,” Newsom said. “Ultimately, it’s important to recognize that third parties like Jill Stein and Cornel West can influence outcomes in elections, as we’ve seen in the past.”
Newsom also shared with Psaki that he plans to spend considerable time helping Biden’s campaign in Arizona and Nevada. He pointed out that abortion would be a major issue in these states.
Resist The Mainstream reported earlier this year about Newsom calling the late-term abortion debate “a complete distraction.”
“I think we’ve made it clear in states like California, where we’ve established a constitutional right to access abortion. Ultimately, the decision should be left to women and their doctors,” Newsom said in response to NBC’s “Meet The Press” host Kristen Welker’s questions.
Gavin Newsom says abortion is “a determination for women and their doctors.”
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) February 26, 2024
pic.twitter.com/XbGCd0TCbG
The California governor’s statements are consistent with his ongoing national efforts to advocate for reproductive rights as the primary season heats up ahead of a contentious November general election.
Democrats consider their strong and enduring support for abortion rights as a key asset in their campaigns.
Newsom, a firm ally of President Joe Biden, regularly underscores the major differences between the parties on abortion rights issues.