California Governor Gavin Newsom’s Political Strategy and Its Historical Parallels
On August 9, California’s Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom made headlines with a statement that he is an ‘established insurgent.’ Newsom’s imagery aims to portray him as both a part of the establishment and a revolutionary figure. This paradoxical approach reflects his attempt to appeal to various political factions during a time of radical victories nationwide.
Newsom appears to want to lead the far-left movement. History provides a cautionary tale in the form of Georges Jacques Danton, a key figure in the French Revolution. In ‘Rage and the Republic: The Unfinished Story of the American Revolution,’ I discuss how the French Revolution spiraled into chaos. The infamous period known as ‘The Terror’ was not born from the working class but from educated elites who led the Jacobin movement. Danton, a skilled orator and writer, became the justice minister and a member of the Committee of Public Safety. His attempts to sustain power resulted in his own downfall.
Danton’s rise to power involved using rhetoric to incite violence. Despite initially gaining influence, he found himself overwhelmed by the same forces he unleashed. The radicals, including his ally Robespierre, eventually turned against their own, leading to Danton’s execution.
‘Woe betide those who would provoke revolutions,’ Danton warned, aware of the unstoppable cycle of violence.
Today, figures like Newsom are navigating a similar landscape. He aims to appeal to the far-left by advocating for constitutional changes, hoping his wealth and privilege won’t alienate socialist supporters. California Representative Ro Khanna shares similar aspirations, despite substantial personal wealth.
Newsom faces electoral challenges, with some polls placing him behind Pete Buttigieg, who also campaigns for significant systemic changes. Meanwhile, the rise of socialist candidates like Peggy Flanagan in Minnesota signals a shift in political dynamics.
Newsom’s efforts to gain favor with leftist factions reflect the historical trap of appealing to radical movements. While some may argue for scrapping institutions like the Constitution, others question the authenticity of Newsom’s insurgent label.
As figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez gain traction, Newsom’s mixed identity as both establishment and revolutionary remains a point of contention.
Ultimately, Newsom’s attempt to align with the far-left may face challenges similar to those of historical figures who underestimated the movements they sought to lead.
Jonathan Turley, a Fox News Media contributor, discusses these themes further in his book and broader academic work, drawing parallels between past and present political strategies.