Podcast Summary: A Message for Our Loyal Listeners
The Daily Beast Podcast (Season 1)
Release Date: June 11, 2025
Hosts: Joanna Coles and Samantha Bee
Featured Guest: Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
Introduction and Context
In the episode titled "A Message for Our Loyal Listeners," hosts Joanna Coles and Samantha Bee engage in a compelling conversation with California Governor Gavin Newsom. The discussion delves into the tumultuous political climate, Governor Newsom's interactions with former President Donald Trump, and the recent deployment of National Guard and Marine forces in Los Angeles to address rioting associated with ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) actions.
Remembering Brian Wilson
The episode opens with Joanna Coles sharing the sad news of Brian Wilson's passing, whom she describes as "the ultimate Californian beach boy." Governor Newsom expresses his condolences, highlighting Wilson's significance to California's cultural heritage.
Joanna Coles [03:07]: "That's the ultimate Californian. Actually any."
Gavin Newsom [03:24]: "God bless his family and all my best to them."
Navigating the Political Landscape with Donald Trump
Coles shifts the conversation to Governor Newsom's recent interactions with high-profile political figures, including former President Donald Trump, Steve Bannon, and Charlie Kirk. She points out the stark contrast between these engagements and the current threats against Newsom's leadership.
Joanna Coles [03:35]: "The president is suggesting that you be arrested... Some people think you've been played by the president."
Governor Newsom defends his approach to engaging with diverse voices, emphasizing his commitment to open dialogue and opposing divisive tactics.
Gavin Newsom [04:11]: "I have no problem having an open hand in reaching out to other people... I'll continue to engage people. I'll continue to try to learn from people I disagree with."
He critiques Trump's leadership style, characterizing him as a "bully" and a "bullshit artist," while distinguishing the office of the presidency from the individual holding it.
Gavin Newsom [05:03]: "He doesn't believe in the rule of law... He's A bullshit artist is what he is, but he happens to be President of the United States."
Implications of Potential Arrests and Demonstrating Resilience
The discussion intensifies as Coles brings up the possibility of Newsom being arrested, paralleling the recent arrest of environmental activist Greta Thunberg. Newsom vehemently opposes such actions, framing them as detrimental to democracy.
Gavin Newsom [07:35]: "It's not good for our democracy. Just even the threat of it. We've got to bring this country together."
He emphasizes the necessity of maintaining democratic principles and the importance of protecting truth and knowledge amidst cultural and political upheaval.
Addressing ICE Incursions and the Role of the National Guard
A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the recent deployment of 4,000 National Guard members and 700 Marines in Los Angeles due to ICE's actions against the undocumented population. Coles questions whether the militarization of policing reflects a broader issue within Democratic law and order policies.
Joanna Coles [11:10]: "There's a concern... when you see people stoning police cars... local police should have called in the National Guard."
Governor Newsom responds by clarifying his administration's position on law enforcement and the strategic deployment of resources. He outlines the proactive measures taken, including a special legislative session that secured substantial funding for litigation and legal aid to support the undocumented community.
Gavin Newsom [09:46]: "We prepared for this... a successful special session that included tens of millions of dollars for litigation... and legal aid for our undocumented community."
He disputes claims that Democrats have abandoned law and order, detailing the extensive use of local law enforcement and selective deployment of the National Guard to manage specific situations without overreliance.
Gavin Newsom [11:54]: "We've put down the National Guard at the border and for wildfires... We have more than adequate local law enforcement to handle these incidents."
Moreover, Newsom highlights his administration's significant financial support for law enforcement agencies, reinforcing his commitment to public safety.
Gavin Newsom [14:28]: "This state significantly increased $1.1 billion support for local law enforcement agencies... protecting the public."
Legal Strategies Against Federal Overreach
Governor Newsom elaborates on the legal actions taken to challenge the federal government's deployment of military forces for domestic law enforcement, citing over two dozen lawsuits filed against the Trump administration. He underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and maintaining the separation of powers within the government.
Gavin Newsom [09:46]: "We are asserting the president does not have that legal right... demanding that there be a temporary restraining order."
Conclusion and Forward-Looking Statements
As the episode concludes, Newsom reiterates his administration's resolve to protect democracy and ensure public safety. He expresses determination to counteract efforts that threaten the nation's foundational principles and emphasizes the collective responsibility to foster unity and resilience in challenging times.
Gavin Newsom [07:35]: "We've got to bring this country together... we're going to push back."
Final Thoughts
This episode of The Daily Beast Podcast provides an in-depth look into Governor Gavin Newsom's strategies and perspectives amidst heightened political tensions and societal challenges in California. By addressing topics ranging from political adversaries and legal battles to law enforcement and immigration, Newsom offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the complexities faced by state leadership in maintaining order and upholding democratic values.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Gavin Newsom [05:03]: "He doesn't believe in the rule of law... He's A bullshit artist is what he is, but he happens to be President of the United States."
- Gavin Newsom [07:35]: "It's not good for our democracy. Just even the threat of it."
- Gavin Newsom [11:54]: "We've got more than adequate number of local law enforcement that can handle these incidences."
- Gavin Newsom [14:28]: "This state significantly increased $1.1 billion support for local law enforcement agencies... protecting the public."
Note: Advertisements and non-content segments have been excluded from this summary to focus solely on the substantive discussions between Joanna Coles and Governor Gavin Newsom.