On a recent episode of their podcast, Las Culturistas, comedians Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang provided a pointed critique of California Governor Gavin Newsom’s presidential aspirations. This episode marked Yang’s return following his exit from Saturday Night Live.
Newsom’s Presidential Prospects Questioned
During their discussion, Rogers bluntly stated, “It’s not going to be Gavin Newsom.” The two hosts explored the dynamics of U.S. politics and the implications for the upcoming presidential elections.
Democratic Party Challenges
The Democratic Party faces significant challenges after the 2024 presidential election, where former Vice President Kamala Harris lost to Republican Donald Trump. Party members have expressed concerns about Harris’s appeal to moderate voters. Potential candidates for the 2028 nomination include Newsom, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and Senator Cory Booker from New Jersey.
Podcast Highlights
In a segment of the podcast titled “I Don’t Think So, Honey,” Rogers offered a blunt assessment: “If you’re gonna run for president, you need vocal surgery.” He criticized Newsom’s public speaking style, suggesting it would hinder his campaign.
- Yang responded, “Get vocal surgery,” while also urging the governor to complete California’s notorious 405 freeway construction.
Rogers continued his critique, commenting on Newsom’s social media presence. He likened it to a spectacle similar to former President Trump, stating, “It’s a mess.” He expressed skepticism over Newsom’s ability to lead effectively due to his self-serving public persona.
Bernie Sanders and Future Candidates
Yang proposed reviving Senator Bernie Sanders’s candidacy, reflecting on Sanders’s influence within the party. Both hosts acknowledged the mistakes of their early political endorsements, particularly regarding Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election.
Rogers expressed doubt about the potential success of Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett in the 2026 U.S. Senate race in Texas, emphasizing that no Democrat has won statewide in over 30 years.
Conclusion
The duo concluded their episode with a call for change within the party’s leadership, arguing against establishing candidates that the public has previously rejected. The upcoming midterm elections, scheduled for November, will be crucial in determining the political landscape in the United States.
