Hunter Biden Praises Gavin Newsom as Democratic 'Greatest Warrior'

The president's son also criticizes Democratic leadership in Congress and the Senate.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 9:33pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting in shades of blue, red, and gold featuring overlapping, fractured geometric shapes and forms, conveying a sense of motion, energy, and internal tension within the Democratic Party.Hunter Biden's critique of Democratic leadership highlights the party's internal divisions and the rise of new political figures who could shape its future.NYC Today

In a recent interview, former President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden called California Governor Gavin Newsom the 'greatest warrior' the Democratic Party has, praising his leadership and articulation. Hunter Biden also expressed disappointment with much of the Democratic Party's congressional and Senate leadership, while highlighting other potential 2028 Democratic candidates like Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.

Why it matters

Hunter Biden's comments provide an insider's perspective on the current state of the Democratic Party and its potential future leadership. As the son of a former president, his views carry weight and could influence party dynamics and 2028 presidential speculation.

The details

In the interview, Hunter Biden said he thinks 'Gov. Newsom is probably the most articulate and greatest warrior we have out there' for the Democratic Party. He also praised New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, calling him 'inspired.' However, Hunter Biden expressed disappointment with 'much of the Democratic Party, leadership in Congress, in the United States Senate.' He acknowledged being 'biased' when it came to his father's use of the presidential pardon power, which benefited him.

  • The interview with Hunter Biden was posted to social media on Tuesday, April 15, 2026.

The players

Hunter Biden

The son of former President Joe Biden.

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California, who Hunter Biden called the 'greatest warrior' for the Democratic Party.

Andy Beshear

The Governor of Kentucky, who Hunter Biden named as a potential 2028 Democratic candidate.

Josh Shapiro

The Governor of Pennsylvania, who Hunter Biden named as a potential 2028 Democratic candidate.

Zohran Mamdani

The Mayor of New York City, who Hunter Biden praised as 'inspired.'

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What they’re saying

“I think that Gov. Newsom is probably the most articulate and greatest warrior we have out there — really loves the way in which he calls out the president.”

— Hunter Biden

“I look at somebody like Mayor Mamdani, and I'm inspired, absolutely, completely inspired by the way in which he has not only won his election but the way that he's leading now.”

— Hunter Biden

“I'm completely biased as it relates to what my dad did for me. I fully understand how uniquely situated I am in being privileged enough to have received a pardon from my father.”

— Hunter Biden

What’s next

As the 2028 presidential election cycle approaches, Hunter Biden's comments will likely continue to be scrutinized and analyzed for their potential impact on the Democratic Party's future direction and leadership.

The takeaway

Hunter Biden's praise for Gavin Newsom and other rising Democratic stars, coupled with his criticism of party leadership, provides an insider's perspective on the current state and future of the Democratic Party. His comments highlight the ongoing tensions and debates within the party as it looks to the future.