California Governor Gavin Newsom is shaking up the Democratic playbook by promoting dialogue with conservative figures—a move he believes is essential if his party hopes to reclaim lost ground at the polls. Speaking candidly during a conversation with Bill Maher on Friday night’s episode of Real Time with Bill Maher, Newsom opened up about his unconventional approach to political discourse through his podcast, This Is Gavin Newsom.
During the interview, the governor acknowledged the criticisms aimed at him for giving platforms to right-wing figures like Steve Bannon and Charlie Kirk. However, Newsom insisted that ignoring Republican voices is a losing strategy for Democrats. He stressed that real progress can only happen through conversation and understanding, even if it means speaking with staunchly conservative individuals.
“The Democratic Brand is Toxic”
Newsom admitted outright that the “Democratic brand is toxic now,” a rare acknowledgment from a high-profile leader within the party. According to him, the problem isn’t just messaging—it’s the lack of genuine dialogue with the other side. Instead of retreating to ideological corners, Newsom argues that Democrats should engage with conservatives to find common ground.
The This Is Gavin Newsom podcast was created to address this need. Through candid discussions with political opponents, the California governor aims to bridge the divide between ideologically polarized groups. Newsom’s outreach strategy seeks to understand conservative viewpoints and, where possible, identify areas of mutual interest.
Bill Maher Backs Newsom’s Strategy
Bill Maher, known for his often provocative takes on politics, applauded Newsom’s willingness to engage with those outside his political bubble. During the interview, Maher remarked that dialogue is essential, especially when Republicans have been able to effectively mobilize their base and win elections.
“Ya gotta talk to them … because they won,” Maher emphasized, acknowledging the political strength the GOP continues to exhibit nationwide.
Maher also criticized what he sees as a cult-like devotion to Donald Trump among many GOP followers. During his New Rules segment, Maher accused Republican politicians of blindly emulating Trump—down to their attire, rhetoric, and even their hostile approach toward America’s allies, like Canada.
However, Maher was quick to praise independent thinkers like Joe Rogan for calling out Trump’s controversial trade policies. Rogan’s criticism of a potential trade war with Canada as “stupid” was highlighted as an example of true free thought, something Maher believes the political landscape is sorely missing.
The Political Battle Ahead
Newsom’s conversation with Maher comes at a time when Democrats are facing mounting criticism from within their own ranks. Despite holding the White House, many in the party feel their messaging has failed to resonate with ordinary Americans. Newsom’s willingness to openly critique his own party’s shortcomings has drawn both praise and backlash.
Some progressives argue that engaging with conservative figures only legitimizes harmful rhetoric. Others believe Newsom’s approach could be the lifeline Democrats need to regain trust among voters who feel alienated by hyper-partisan rhetoric.
The California governor’s strategy of inclusivity through conversation has been put to the test before. During his tenure, Newsom has dealt with controversies ranging from COVID-19 lockdowns to high-profile clashes with conservative governors like Florida’s Ron DeSantis and Texas’s Greg Abbott.
However, Newsom remains steadfast in his belief that Democrats must be willing to engage with those who fundamentally disagree with them. Without honest dialogue, he argues, the party risks further alienation and electoral losses.
A Changing Political Landscape
The conversation between Newsom and Maher also touched on a broader issue—the increasingly fractured nature of American politics. As polarization grows, figures like Newsom are trying to chart a new course, one where discourse isn’t limited to echo chambers.
“Democrats need to take a hard look in the mirror,” Newsom noted, echoing Maher’s sentiment that real change requires introspection from both parties. Maher added that if Republicans aren’t willing to engage in the same kind of reflection, America risks becoming a political monolith akin to authoritarian regimes.
Maher’s jab at the GOP, comparing unwavering loyalty to Trump with the rigid control of North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, may have been tongue-in-cheek, but it underscored a serious point. Without room for dissent or discussion, true democracy can’t function.
What’s Next for Newsom?
While Newsom’s approach has drawn ire from some progressives, he shows no signs of backing down. The This Is Gavin Newsom podcast is expected to continue providing a platform for diverse voices, even if it means inviting those with radically different viewpoints.
With the next election cycle approaching, Newsom’s strategy could become a case study in whether Democrats can broaden their appeal by talking directly to their political opponents. Whether his approach proves successful or not, one thing is certain—Gavin Newsom is willing to try something different.
His conversation with Bill Maher serves as a reminder that in a time of deep division, sometimes the most radical act is simply listening.