Newsom Deflects Blame for California's Crises

Governor points fingers at others instead of taking responsibility, critics say

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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California Governor Gavin Newsom has a habit of deflecting blame for the state's many challenges, according to a scathing editorial from the California Post. Anytime Newsom addresses issues like homelessness, wildfires, housing, or the economy, he points the finger at others - local leaders, the federal government, energy companies, and even former President Trump. The editorial argues that Newsom should instead take responsibility and offer concrete solutions, rather than just making excuses.

Why it matters

Newsom's tendency to avoid accountability and shift blame raises concerns about his leadership and ability to effectively address California's pressing problems. As a potential 2028 presidential candidate, his handling of state issues could impact his national political ambitions.

The details

The editorial cites several examples of Newsom deflecting blame, such as criticizing local leaders for failing to implement his CARE court program to help the mentally ill, blaming climate change and the federal government for slow fire recovery, and attributing high energy costs and gas prices to energy companies and "Big Oil" rather than state policies. The editorial argues that Newsom is more focused on creating a record of "Doing Something" than actually solving problems.

  • On Monday, Newsom rebuked a list of counties, including Los Angeles, for failing to implement his CARE court program.
  • In 2022, Newsom promised a "paradigm shift" on homelessness that has yet to materialize.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The current governor of California who is known for deflecting blame for the state's problems rather than taking responsibility and offering solutions.

California Post Editorial Board

The editorial board of the California Post newspaper that published the scathing critique of Newsom's leadership.

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What they’re saying

“Local leaders have a moral and legal obligation to deliver this transformational tool for those who need it most. We will not accept failure and excuses when lives are on the line.”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California (California Post)

What’s next

As Newsom's potential 2028 presidential campaign grows nearer, the editorial suggests he will likely continue to blame others for California's problems rather than taking responsibility and offering solutions.

The takeaway

Newsom's tendency to deflect blame and avoid accountability raises serious questions about his leadership and ability to effectively address California's pressing challenges. This could undermine his political ambitions if he continues this pattern of behavior.