California (Thechieftainspear) – Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has voiced his disapproval of California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s decision to feature Steve Bannon, a key figure in the MAGA movement, on his newly launched podcast.
Speaking at a Democratic policy retreat in Virginia, Beshear acknowledged the importance of open dialogue but argued that Bannon’s history of promoting divisive rhetoric made him an inappropriate guest.
“I support the idea of engaging with different perspectives, but Steve Bannon has repeatedly spread hatred, anger, and at times even encouraged violence,” Beshear said. “Providing him with a platform only amplifies those dangerous ideas.”
Newsom, who is widely speculated to have presidential ambitions, recently launched the podcast as a way to engage in discussions across the political spectrum. In his debut episode, he interviewed Charlie Kirk of Turning Point USA and sparked controversy by challenging progressive stances on issues such as transgender athletes in youth sports and police funding.
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Defending his interview with Bannon, Newsom stated in an email that understanding the success of Trump’s political movement is crucial for Democrats. During their conversation, Bannon repeated debunked claims about the 2020 election while also discussing economic policies like tariffs and taxation.
Newsom’s move has drawn sharp criticism not only from Beshear but also from other political figures, including former Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger. Kinzinger, who opposed Trump within the GOP, described Newsom’s decision as “insane,” arguing that it undermines efforts to challenge figures like Bannon.
As speculation about the 2028 Democratic presidential race grows, Newsom’s strategy of engaging with conservative voices could shape his national image—though not without pushback from fellow Democrats like Beshear.
A spokesperson for Newsom did not immediately respond to inquiries about the criticism, but the California governor has signaled that his next podcast guest will be Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, suggesting a shift toward more traditional Democratic discussions .
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