California Governor Gavin Newsom, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, promoted his memoir Young Man in a Hurry at an event moderated by leftist media figure Justin Kanew of the Tennessee Holler. Speaking to a mostly older, middle-aged crowd, Newsom criticized the Trump administration and Republican policies while advocating far-left economic and voter reforms.

The governor argued that America’s economic system “fundamentally has to be reformed,” claiming younger generations are falling behind despite growing wealth among the ultra-rich. He praised socialist-leaning proposals, claiming, “So Bernie [Sanders] is right in that respect,” and blamed Trump for worsening the country’s economic struggles.

Newsom highlighted California’s minimum wage increases for fast food and healthcare workers, touting them as achievements, while ignoring evidence that higher wages have led to job cuts and higher prices in the state. He also criticized other states, including Tennessee, for not raising wages.

The governor opposed the Republican-backed Save America Act, which would require proof of citizenship for voter registration, claiming the law could prevent Americans from voting if they lack a passport or birth certificate. He repeated unfounded concerns about potential voter suppression and ICE activity at polling places, despite federal officials confirming no such plans exist.

Throughout the event, Newsom emphasized more aggressive executive action, signaling his willingness to bypass Congress to enact far-left policies.