To the editor: I could not disagree with George Skelton's column (“Instead of criticizing other Democrats, Newsom must look in the inside”, April 7). I heard the Newsom podcast the other day, all 90 minutes, and could not be more impressed. Newsom is getting involved with the other side, which is exactly what should be done, especially because the Democrats (of which I am one) remain more and more idea of what voters really want. I learned a lot about the disappointment that voters are feeling, to the extent that they would choose a criminal convicted by a candidate of our own party. I encourage everyone to listen and learn.
Manuel “Manny” Padilla Jr., Studio City
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To the editor: I appreciate what Newsom is trying to do with your podcast. My father and grandfather were lawyers who enjoyed avid debates at the table. I remember how for many of these discussions, one side could begin to raise their voices in the discussion. At that time, my father would press the retention button and mention that the argument must be done logically, not emotionally. The point was that as passionate as one could be in a particular subject, it was better to be better informed and then mention the argument when he had more ammunition in his belt. Emotional and strong argument was not tolerated.
Will Shaw, CresCenta
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To the editor: I am an independent registered on the left, and a great admirer of the Newsom podcast. After the elections in November, I wanted real answers and explanations, not the repetitive and selfish excuses that filled the bubble of the liberal media. So I looked for podcasts, books, news sources and interviews that presented balanced reports and analysis of the left and right sides of our political division. It was through this search for alternative and balanced information sources that I discovered the podcast “This is Gavin Newsom”, which I find refreshing and informative.
I do not care about the political plans of the governor, but I greatly appreciate his willingness to ask open and poll questions, to participate in a civil discussion and discuss issues that are sometimes unfavorable to him personally and/or/or for the Democratic Party. There is much to learn from these and other similar bipartisan discussions, if it is a viable contender in 2026 and beyond.
Kathleen Byrnes, Pasadena
