California Governor Gavin Newsom is positioning himself for a potential 2028 presidential run, but his recent comments on transgender topics are stirring backlash and exposing divisions even within his own party.
In a podcast interview with New York Times columnist Ezra Klein, Newsom openly declared his strong support for transgender policies affecting children. “I want to see trans kids,” he said. He went on to boast, “I have a trans godson. There’s no governor that’s done more pro-trans legislation than I have. No one has been a stronger advocate for the LGBTQ community.”
The remarks quickly went viral after being shared by America PAC, the political action committee backed by Elon Musk. Newsom’s press team fired back at Musk personally, posting: “We’re sorry your daughter hates you, Elon.”
Musk responded sharply, clarifying the reference was to his estranged son and describing the situation as “a tragic mental illness caused by the evil woke mind virus you push on vulnerable children. I love Xavier very much and hope he recovers.”
This exchange comes as Democrats grapple with the fallout from 2024, where transgender policies proved unpopular with key voter groups, including minorities who helped deliver wins for President Trump. Ads highlighting opposition to boys in girls’ sports and related issues resonated widely, contributing to Republican gains.
Newsom himself has shown signs of moderating on some fronts, previously acknowledging to conservative commentator Charlie Kirk that allowing biological males in female sports is unfair. Yet his latest statements signal a return to appealing to the party’s progressive base, even as broader public opinion rejects the idea that children can truly change their sex.
California under Newsom has led the nation in transgender-related laws, including measures that limit parental notification in schools when children explore gender changes and establish the state as a refuge for out-of-state youth seeking medical interventions. Critics argue these policies sideline parents and expose kids to irreversible decisions at young ages.
Rapper Nicki Minaj weighed in forcefully, blasting Newsom’s comments and predicting political trouble ahead for the governor.
“Imagine being the guy running on wanting to see trans kids,” she said. “Not even a trans ADULT would run on that. Normal adults wake up & think they want to see HEALTHY, SAFE, HAPPY kids. Not Gav. The Gav Nots. GavOUT. Send in the next guy, I’m bored.”
As Newsom courts national attention, his handling of these cultural battles could define whether he broadens his appeal or remains tied to positions that cost Democrats dearly in recent elections. Families across the country are watching closely, prioritizing protection for children over ideological experiments.
