Podcast Summary: Shawn Ryan Show Episode #218 – Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
Release Date: July 14, 2025
Introduction
In Episode #218 of the "Shawn Ryan Show," host Shawn Ryan engages in a candid and in-depth conversation with Gavin Newsom, the 40th Governor of California. Known for his progressive policies and leadership of the nation’s most populous state, Newsom brings a wealth of experience from his tenure as Mayor of San Francisco and his entrepreneurial background as the founder of Vigilance Elite. The episode delves into a range of pressing issues, including gun control, COVID-19 response, immigration, economic competitiveness, housing, and foreign policy, particularly regarding China.
Gun Policy and Safety
The discussion opens with Shawn Ryan presenting Newsom with a California-compliant SIG sour P365 macro, sparking a conversation about gun rights and safety.
Governor Newsom emphasizes California’s stringent gun laws:
“[06:31] I'm not anti gun at all. I'm for just some gun safe common sense that I think the vast majority of folks on the right and the left agree.”
He highlights the effectiveness of comprehensive background checks and the correlation between strong gun laws and lower gun death rates:
“[07:27] I think the evidence suggests the opposite [of increased gun carry reducing crime]. It increases the likelihood of a gun death.”
Sean Ryan counters by expressing concerns over how background checks can infringe on veterans’ rights and potentially label individuals with mental health issues. Newsom responds by advocating for nuanced reforms that respect the Second Amendment while addressing loopholes that allow dangerous individuals to obtain firearms:
“[08:20] Unless we have a system that allows at least some vetting with some objective constraints... It just is about the accessibility.”
Key Takeaways:
- California leads in gun safety reforms, resulting in one of the lowest gun death rates in the nation.
- Newsom advocates for common-sense gun laws that include comprehensive background checks without infringing on responsible gun ownership.
- Emphasis on balancing constitutional rights with public safety.
COVID-19 Response and Leadership
Governor Newsom reflects critically on California’s COVID-19 policies, acknowledging both successes and shortcomings. He discusses the state's aggressive vaccine rollout and the economic and social impacts of lockdowns.
At [20:35], Newsom states:
“Operation Warp Speed was next to it. [...] Vaccines save lives, period, full stop.”
He admits mistakes such as the overemphasis on airborne transmission leading to unnecessary restrictions:
“[21:13] What the hell are we doing shutting down the beaches and open areas, you know, and not understanding that early on.”
Sean Ryan raises concerns about vaccine mandates for children and potential long-term health consequences. Newsom commits to an objective review of the state’s COVID-19 response:
“[17:02] [...] I've asked our team to put together an objective review of everything we did right and everything we did wrong.”
Key Takeaways:
- Acknowledgment of the complexity and unprecedented nature of the pandemic response.
- Commitment to learning from past actions through an objective review.
- Balancing public health measures with economic and social well-being.
Immigration and Border Policy
The conversation shifts to immigration, where Governor Newsom addresses California’s role in managing border security and immigration reform.
At [12:21], Newsom explains:
“We exempt law enforcement from these gun safety laws in the vast majority of cases... On concealed carry, it's what the state overwhelmingly wants.”
He discusses California’s significant investments in migrant centers and collaboration with ICE to deport dangerous individuals:
“[66:14] ...we have notified and work with ICE to transfer and deport 11,000+ dangerous criminals.”
Sean Ryan points out the economic dependence on immigrant labor, particularly in construction and agriculture, expressing concerns about the impact of stringent immigration policies on these sectors. Newsom agrees but emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that ensures public safety:
“[68:52] Gavin Newsom: [...] California is a tent pole of the US economy. You want to mess with us, you're messing with the United States of America.”
Key Takeaways:
- California takes a proactive stance on immigration, balancing economic needs with public safety.
- Significant collaboration with federal agencies to deport criminals while maintaining a robust workforce.
- Acknowledgment of the economic dependency on immigrant labor in key industries.
Economic Competitiveness and Relations with China
Governor Newsom delves into the critical issue of economic competition with China, particularly in the technology and AI sectors.
At [85:35], Newsom states:
“California is the only one [state] leading fusion. We're leading fusion.”
He highlights California’s dominance in research and development, patents, and venture capital, positioning the state as a global leader in innovation:
“[86:24] [...] We have more patents, more venture capital, more scientists, engineers, and researchers than any other place.”
Sean Ryan raises concerns about corporate espionage and the dependency on Chinese-manufactured technology components. Newsom counters by advocating for strong immigration policies to attract global talent essential for maintaining competitiveness:
“[87:58] Gavin Newsom: [...] immigration reform is foundational in that respect.”
Key Takeaways:
- California is a powerhouse in technology and innovation, crucial for maintaining US economic leadership.
- Emphasis on attracting global talent through immigration reform to bolster competitiveness against China.
- Addressing the challenges of corporate espionage and supply chain dependencies through strategic policies.
Housing and Homelessness
The topic of housing and homelessness is extensively covered, with Governor Newsom outlining California’s comprehensive reforms aimed at addressing the housing crisis.
At [133:44], Newsom discusses:
“We have the highest housing costs. The original sin is housing. The supply, demand imbalance, Econ 101.”
He describes regulatory reforms to expedite housing construction, combating NIMBYism (Not In My Backyard) with a YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard) mindset:
“[141:00] [...] CEQA delay. That's been our biggest problem.”
Sean Ryan brings up the narrative surrounding homelessness in California, questioning the effectiveness of the state’s initiatives. Newsom defends California’s efforts by showcasing statistic-driven improvements and ongoing initiatives:
“[148:28] Gavin Newsom: [...] California’s homeless growth last year of unsheltered homeless was 0.45%, it was close to 9% in Florida.”
Key Takeaways:
- California is tackling the housing crisis through significant regulatory reforms and financial investments.
- Shift from NIMBYism to YIMBYism to encourage the development of affordable housing.
- Ongoing efforts have stabilized homelessness rates, contrasting with worsening conditions in other states.
Foreign Policy and National Security
Governor Newsom addresses California’s foreign policy initiatives and national security concerns, particularly in relation to China and the Middle East.
At [106:26], Newsom outlines:
“These are some of the most important discussions to define the future of our country and the world.”
He details diplomatic engagements and collaborations to combat drug trafficking and enhance technological competitiveness:
“[187:21] Gavin Newsom: [...] We filed 27 plus lawsuits against this guy [Trump].”
Sean Ryan raises issues about espionage and technology theft. Newsom reiterates the critical need for maintaining strong economic and technological defenses:
“[229:56] Gavin Newsom: [...] if we don't continue to push out the boundaries of that innovation, man, if we're just doubling down on coal, I get it, but like, literally doubling.”
Key Takeaways:
- California actively engages in foreign policy to enhance national security and economic competitiveness.
- Focus on combating international drug trafficking and technological espionage.
- Importance of maintaining diplomatic relationships while asserting economic and technological leadership.
Economic and Industrial Policy
The conversation touches on broader economic policies, including taxation, industrial growth, and energy transitions.
At [216:25], Newsom emphasizes:
“Best research and development where 18% of the world's R&D is located here.”
He advocates for targeted investments in key industries to sustain economic growth and innovation:
“[222:10] Gavin Newsom: [...] We're going to have to step up our game in profound ways.”
Sean Ryan critiques the administration’s handling of tariffs and economic policies, while Newsom defends California’s balanced approach to fostering growth without succumbing to political brinkmanship:
“[223:15] Sean Ryan: I mean, you're concerned about China. I'm concerned about China. Does it concern you that the majority of the solar, solar panels, windmills are all produced in China?
[227:05] Gavin Newsom: [...] We've got a formula for success.”
Key Takeaways:
- Emphasis on sustaining California’s lead in global R&D and technological innovation.
- Advocacy for balanced economic policies that support growth while addressing national security concerns.
- Critique of federal tariff policies as politically motivated rather than strategically beneficial.
Mental Health and Youth Issues
Governor Newsom discusses the intertwined challenges of mental health, substance abuse, and youth development, advocating for comprehensive support systems.
At [142:36], Newsom reveals:
“We created a whole new system called Care Court, which allows for people that have behavioral health issues to receive support while protecting their civil liberties.”
He underscores the importance of addressing the mental health crisis exacerbated by the pandemic and social isolation:
“[156:05] Gavin Newsom: [...] Kids in particular. [...] The number one disease in America is loneliness.”
Sean Ryan shares personal insights into mental health struggles and the transformative potential of psychedelics in treatment. Newsom acknowledges the complexity and advocates for medically supervised approaches:
“[162:28] Gavin Newsom: [...] This is a tough, tough issue.”
Key Takeaways:
- Comprehensive mental health reforms and support systems are critical for addressing homelessness and substance abuse.
- Introduction of Care Court as a rehabilitative approach for individuals with behavioral health issues.
- Advocacy for innovative treatment methods, including psychedelics, within a regulated framework.
Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook
In the concluding segments, Governor Newsom emphasizes the need for unity, responsibility, and forward-thinking policies to navigate the nation’s challenges.
He reflects on his personal journey, the importance of resilience, and the role of leadership in fostering community and economic strength:
“[240:26] Sean Ryan: [...] What do you think the Democrat Party is getting wrong?
[237:09] Gavin Newsom: [...] We need to step up, man. [...]”
Key Takeaways:
- Call for political unity and moving beyond tribalism to address common challenges.
- Emphasis on responsible leadership and continuous innovation to sustain economic and social progress.
- Personal anecdotes underscore the values of resilience, hard work, and community support.
Notable Quotes
-
“[06:31] Gavin Newsom: I'm not anti gun at all. I'm for just some gun safe common sense that I think the vast majority of folks on the right and the left agree.”
-
“[17:02] Gavin Newsom: I've asked our team to put together an objective review of everything we did right and everything we did wrong.”
-
“[85:35] Gavin Newsom: California is the only one [state] leading fusion. We're leading fusion.”
-
“[133:44] Gavin Newsom: We have the highest housing costs. The original sin is housing. The supply, demand imbalance, Econ 101.”
-
“[156:05] Gavin Newsom: Kids in particular. [...] The number one disease in America is loneliness.”
-
“[216:25] Gavin Newsom: Best research and development where 18% of the world's R&D is located here.”
Conclusion
This episode of the Shawn Ryan Show provides a comprehensive look into Governor Gavin Newsom’s perspectives on critical issues facing California and the broader United States. Through an open and honest dialogue, Newsom shares his strategies for gun control, pandemic response, immigration reform, economic competitiveness, housing, and mental health. His insights reflect a commitment to progressive yet pragmatic solutions aimed at fostering unity and resilience in a deeply polarized political landscape.
Listeners gain valuable understanding of California’s leadership strategies under Newsom, the challenges of balancing state and federal policies, and the importance of evidence-based approaches in governance. The conversation underscores the complexities of modern political leadership and the necessity of addressing multifaceted societal issues with empathy, innovation, and unwavering commitment.
