Gavin Newsom Accused of ‘Code-Switching’ by GOP Rep

Texas Republican Congressman Wesley Hunt has leveled a strong accusation against California Governor Gavin Newsom, calling his recent appearance on the “All the Smoke” podcast a prime example of “code-switching.” Hunt, a Black conservative, believes Newsom’s dialect and demeanor on the show were an attempt to appeal to Black voters.

Newsom’s Podcast Appearance Under Fire

During his chat with former NBA players Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson, Newsom discussed his upbringing, detailing how his single mother worked multiple jobs to make ends meet. He described his childhood with phrases like “came from no money and just hustled,” “two and a half jobs,” and reminisced about “bouncing the basketball” in the backyard.

These remarks, particularly his use of certain slang and conversational style, drew criticism from conservatives online, leading Hunt to weigh in on “The Benny Show.” Hunt characterized these efforts by white liberals as condescending and patronizing towards Black people.

Accusations of Patronizing Behavior

“This is the efforts of white benevolent liberals that don’t view us as equal at all — and by us, I mean Black people,” Hunt stated. He elaborated that such individuals “talk down to us,” believing Black people are “too stupid to follow the law” or “incapable of following the law,” and often push for “handouts instead of hand-ups.”

Hunt specifically targeted the idea that speaking with two Black basketball stars suddenly makes Newsom “a brother.” He found the governor’s approach “quite condescending” and “actually quite disgusting,” suggesting it implies Black men “can’t think for ourselves” and that white individuals see themselves as superior, needing to guide Black men like children.

Newsom’s Camp Responds

In response to the online backlash, a spokesperson for Governor Newsom’s office clarified to the Daily Mail that Newsom was raised by his mother after his parents’ divorce when he was very young. The spokesperson reiterated that Newsom has often spoken about navigating “two different worlds” and highlighted his mother’s hard work ethic, holding multiple jobs.

The controversy highlights the ongoing debate surrounding authenticity and representation in politics, especially as Newsom is rumored to be considering a presidential run in 2028.