A political data analyst is warning that California Gov. Gavin Newsom is struggling badly as enthusiasm sinks for a crowded field of potential 2028 Democratic presidential contenders — a situation critics are mocking as a “total clown car.”
Newsom’s problems were on display this week as he awkwardly feigned confusion over how to obtain a copy of his own birth certificate while the debate over the SAVE America Act continues. Critics also accused him of racial pandering during a public appearance in Georgia, where he attempted to connect with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and the audience by talking about his dyslexia and academic performance.
“I’m not trying to impress you. I’m just trying to impress upon you, I’m like you. I’m no better than you. I’m a 960 SAT guy,” Newsom said. “And I’m not trying to offend anyone and act all there if you got 940, but literally a 960 SAT guy. You’ve never seen me read a speech because I cannot read the speech. Maybe the wrong business to be in.”
The remarks quickly drew backlash, with critics saying the governor appeared desperate to manufacture relatability while reinforcing doubts about his political instincts. Data analysts tracking voter engagement argue that Newsom’s stumbles reflect a broader lack of excitement surrounding the long list of Democrats positioning themselves for a 2028 run, with no clear frontrunner emerging and grassroots enthusiasm remaining weak.
While there is still time for Newsom to recalibrate before Democratic primaries begin, observers note that his history suggests he is more likely to double down than reverse course. That pattern, they argue, makes a turnaround unlikely and leaves his national ambitions increasingly vulnerable as the party’s internal competition intensifies.
For now, analysts say Newsom’s public missteps, combined with tepid voter interest, are reinforcing the perception that the Democratic field is fragmented, unfocused, and struggling to produce a candidate capable of generating genuine excitement — a dynamic critics are already portraying as political implosion in slow motion.
