California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed concerns over the intense media focus on former President Donald Trump’s ongoing hush money trial. In a discussion on MSNBC with host Jen Psaki, Newsom cautioned that the excessive attention could inadvertently benefit Trump politically, a scenario that worries him given the stakes involved.
Newsom highlighted the dual nature of Trump’s public persona, pointing out that Trump tends to capitalize on any form of attention, whether positive or negative. He underscored the importance of balancing the trial’s coverage with other pressing democratic issues, such as the implications of the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade, and the broader impact on American democracy.
The conversation also touched on the potential political consequences of focusing too much on Trump, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections. Newsom argued that while the criminal nature of the trial is significant, it should not overshadow other critical issues facing the nation.
Moreover, Newsom discussed the political dynamics introduced by third-party candidates such as RFK Jr., who recently gained ballot access in Michigan. He emphasized the need for the Democratic party to take these developments seriously, as third-party candidates can influence the outcome of crucial swing states.
The governor concluded by emphasizing his commitment to support President Biden in the upcoming elections, particularly focusing on key battleground states like Arizona and Nevada, where issues like abortion rights are expected to play a significant role. Newsom’s comments reflect a strategic approach to both the immediate challenges posed by Trump’s trial and the broader political landscape as the country heads towards another election cycle.