California Democratic Congressmember Sam Liccardo posted a searing critique of Newsom's interview to social media, writing: "Newsom calling the Democratic brand 'toxic' resembles the defendant who pleads for a judge's mercy as an 'orphan' after killing his parents."

Democrats find themselves flummoxed by the contrast between the MAGA-friendly host Gov. Gavin Newsom appears to be on his podcast and his national image as a liberal prizefighter. Newsom said he was also surprised,

California Gov. Gavin Newsom slammed his own party, calling the Democratic brand "toxic" and saying his side of the aisle needs to "mature" on Bill Maher's "Real Time" Friday.