How a Party Offends Its Voters

RealClearPolitics

by Daniel McCarthy, NYP

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Gavin Newsom’s bid for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination hinges on winning over significant portions of the African American vote. However, his recent attempt to connect with this demographic during a book tour in Atlanta backfired spectacularly. By boasting about his poor SAT scores and dyslexia, Newsom attempted to bond with the audience by positioning himself as relatable. His comments, however, were met with sharp criticism. Nina Turner, a Democratic strategist, called his approach insulting, while rapper Nicki Minaj condemned him for trivializing the community’s struggles. Even a Democratic consultant expressed disappointment, noting that his choice of words felt disingenuous. Newsom’s misstep highlights the challenges candidates face when attempting to court specific voter groups. His rivals, such as Pete Buttigieg, already struggle with low African American support, but Kamala Harris presents a more formidable obstacle. Despite her 2020 campaign imploding early, Harris has rebranded herself as a viable candidate, positioning herself as a potential threat to Newsom. Her ability to navigate the complexities of Black voter outreach will be crucial in determining whether she can challenge Newsom effectively. The broader implications of this dynamic extend beyond just the 2028 race. California’s political strategy, often criticized for its high taxes and progressive policies, is increasingly seen as a liability. Voters fleeing to states like Texas and Florida for lower taxes and greater freedom suggest that Newsom’s approach may not be sustainable on a national scale. This shift underscores the importance of candidates who can appeal to diverse constituencies while addressing economic and cultural concerns. Another critical issue facing Democrats is their relationship with Jewish voters, particularly in battleground states like Pennsylvania. Josh Shapiro, the Democratic governor, faces his own challenges due to scrutiny over his ties to Israel. Reports suggest that Kamala Harris’s 2024 campaign struggled to balance progressive demands with traditional Jewish voter priorities, leading to internal conflicts within the party. These tensions are further exacerbated by rising anti-Zionism and anti-Semitic sentiment among younger Democrats. Ultimately, the 2028 race will be shaped by candidates’ ability to navigate these complex dynamics. The stakes are high as Democrats seek a nominee capable of uniting

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Originally published on RealClearPolitics on 2/24/2026