STATE OF MONDAY: Gavin Newsom Plays Populist — Behind The Curtain He’s A Uniparty Darling

The article argues that California Governor Gavin Newsom is presenting himself as a populist while remaining closely connected to wealthy donors, corporations and political interests. It says voter distrust of established politicians, particularly among young people, could challenge his apparent national ambitions.

It cites more than $347 million in “behested payments” solicited by Newsom over about 15 years; these are donations to charitable or governmental purposes, not campaign contributions, and have no equivalent dollar limits. California’s political watchdog fined him more than $30,000 for late reports covering 18 payments. The article also says two inaugural nonprofits raised over $5 million, federal prosecutors have subpoenaed records from a related foundation, and Newsom’s former chief of staff pleaded guilty to several financial offences.