Just months after courting moderates, California Gov. Gavin Newsom is defending closer ties with the Democratic Socialists of America, even after a leaked video showed a member of the group calling for America’s takedown.

“The most important thing that we can do is take that empire down from within,” the DSA member said.

Newsom, speaking at a press conference last week, said he is “for addition, not subtraction,” when asked about working with the Democratic Socialists of America on issues including free community college, higher minimum wages, subsidized childcare, and lowering carbon emissions.

Newsom’s comments drew criticism from conservatives, who argue that socialist ideology extends far beyond mainstream Democratic Party politics. 

According to the Democratic Socialists of America website, the group is the largest socialist organization in the United States, with more than 90,000 members nationwide. When asked whether he would support one of its candidates, Newsom said he is open to working with the organization.

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“As I have said, I’m for addition, in the spirit of academia, not for subtraction. I think … parties are better off when they have some grace and humility. There are fundamental shared values that unite us together.”

The governor added, “We have to take back the House of Representatives or we’re going to lose this republic.”

Newsom’s comments represent a shift in tone from last year, when he sought to cultivate a moderate image through interviews with conservative commentators such as Charlie Kirk and Steve Bannon. 

Gavin Newsom is completely pathetic!

He’s a complete puppet of his party, now embracing the socialist wing of the party especially after imposing socialist policies on all of California.

We need fewer taxes and regulations, not more! pic.twitter.com/rSGjCXyglW

— Steve Hilton (@SteveHiltonx) July 11, 2026

Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton called Newsom’s comments “completely pathetic.”

“Newsom is a follower, not a leader. He doesn’t believe in anything other than his own political ambition,” Hilton said.

Whether Newsom’s stance expands the Democratic Party’s coalition or alienates moderate voters is likely to become a key question as candidates position themselves ahead of the midterm election and beyond.