California First Partner Lashes Out at Reporters During Planned Parenthood Presser

Jennifer Siebel Newsom accuses journalists of 'horrific war on women' for asking off-topic questions as husband Gavin Newsom teases 2028 presidential run

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom unloaded on reporters at a Sacramento press conference about Planned Parenthood, accusing the mostly female journalists of inflicting a 'horrific war on women' by not asking on-topic questions. The rant came as her husband, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, hinted that Siebel Newsom would be 'extraordinary' as First Lady if he runs for president in 2028.

Why it matters

Siebel Newsom's outburst highlights the tensions between politicians and the press, especially around sensitive issues like women's reproductive rights. It also raises questions about the role of political spouses and their influence, particularly as Gavin Newsom positions himself for a potential White House bid.

The details

During the press conference to announce $90 million in state funding for Planned Parenthood, Siebel Newsom scolded reporters for asking questions about other topics like the high-speed rail project and Newsom's trip to the Munich Security Conference. She accused the journalists, the majority of whom were women, of contributing to a 'horrific war on women' by not focusing solely on Planned Parenthood. KCRA reporter Ashley Zavala pushed back, noting that press conferences often feature off-topic questions.

  • The press conference took place on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
  • Gavin Newsom hinted at a potential 2028 presidential run during the Marie Claire profile on his wife, which was published the same day as the press conference.

The players

Jennifer Siebel Newsom

The wife of California Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state's First Partner, known for her activism and documentary filmmaking.

Gavin Newsom

The current governor of California who is expected to launch a 2028 White House bid, according to the report.

Ashley Zavala

A reporter for KCRA and the president of the Sacramento Press Club, who pushed back on Siebel Newsom's criticism of the journalists.

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What they’re saying

“I find it incredulous that we have Planned Parenthood here, and women are 51% of the population, and the majority of these questions, all of these questions have been about other issues. This happens over and over and over again. And we wonder why we have such a horrific war on women in this country and these guys are getting away with it. Because you guys don't seem to care.”

— Jennifer Siebel Newsom, California First Partner

“A setting like this is one of the few opportunities where the California Capitol press corps get the opportunity to ask Gov. Newsom questions. So often times in settings like this, they are off topic.”

— Ashley Zavala, KCRA reporter and president of the Sacramento Press Club

“I think she'd be extraordinary in that role, even if she married someone else and they ran for that office. So forget me is all I'm saying.”

— Gavin Newsom (Marie Claire)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.