Newsom PAC Bought Thousands of Books to Boost Sales

Gavin Newsom's political action committee spent over $1.5 million to purchase copies of his memoir and distribute them to supporters.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:25pm

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A fractured, abstract painting of a stack of books in overlapping geometric shapes and warm colors, conveying the idea of political manipulation of book sales.A political action committee's bulk purchase of a politician's memoir raises concerns about the integrity of bestseller lists and traditional publishing.NYC Today

The New York Times reported that Gavin Newsom's political action committee spent more than $1.5 million to purchase around 67,000 copies of his memoir, 'Young Man in a Hurry,' and distribute them to supporters who donated to the PAC. This accounted for roughly two-thirds of all print copies sold, boosting the book's bestseller status.

Why it matters

This move by Newsom's PAC highlights a common political strategy of using book sales to raise funds and boost a politician's profile, rather than relying solely on traditional book sales. While not illegal, the practice raises questions about the authenticity of bestseller lists and whether such tactics undermine the traditional publishing process.

The details

Newsom's PAC made two payments totaling $1,561,875 to a book distributor, listed as 'books at cost.' The PAC then distributed these books to supporters who donated any amount to the committee. Team Newsom claims the strategy actually made money, bringing in more from donations than the cost of the books, and insists the governor did not pocket any royalties on those copies.

  • In early 2026, Newsom's PAC made the large book purchases.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The governor of California and author of the memoir 'Young Man in a Hurry.'

Newsom's PAC

The political action committee associated with Gavin Newsom that purchased thousands of copies of his memoir to distribute to supporters.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the growing use of book sales as a political fundraising strategy, raising questions about the integrity of bestseller lists and the traditional publishing process. It underscores the need for greater transparency and oversight around such practices to ensure they do not undermine the democratic process.