Newsom Admits COVID Crackdowns Went 'Too Far,' Teases 2028 Presidential Run

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has admitted that some of the state's COVID-19 restrictions during the pandemic "went too far," as he prepares for a potential presidential campaign in 2028. In an interview with CNN's Jake Tapper, Newsom, a term-limited Democrat, expressed regret over specific lockdown measures, including the closure of beaches and extended school shutdowns.

"The idea that we closed beaches was insane in hindsight," Newsom stated, noting that other states, like Florida under Gov. Ron DeSantis, also initially closed beaches. He specifically acknowledged that California's major public school systems, such as the Los Angeles Unified School District, remained closed for too long for in-person instruction.

"Obviously, the schools taking too long," Newsom said. "A lot of districts were open, but the big ones weren't. L.A. refused, and I regret that."

Newsom, who issued the nation's first statewide stay-at-home order in March 2020, faced significant criticism and a recall effort over his administration's handling of the pandemic. While he survived the recall in September 2021, the controversies surrounding lockdown measures, including his attendance at a dinner at the French Laundry restaurant in November 2020 while urging public adherence to household restrictions, continue to be scrutinized.

"Just boneheaded decision, just stupid decision," Newsom said of the French Laundry event. He reflected on the recall effort, stating, "I got recalled. I mean, I almost lost. You know, talk about humility. Come on."

Critics, however, argue that Newsom's admissions do not fully address the fiscal consequences of his pandemic policies. Anne Dunsmore, former head of Rescue California, which supported the recall, contended that Newsom has not acknowledged the billions lost to unemployment fraud or the perceived damage to the state's finances.

"He wasted billions of dollars on fraudulent enterprises and continued to increase budgets instead of looking at whether his shops were being run effectively," Dunsmore stated. "He has left us in a financial wasteland."

Political consultant Matt Klink accused Newsom of attempting to reframe his pandemic record as a presidential election cycle approaches. "Many Democrat governors, Newsom and [former New York Gov. Andrew] Cuomo, in particular, who implemented radical COVID restrictions are trying to equivocate and justify their draconian measures," Klink said.

He pointed to inconsistencies in restrictions, such as the closure of beaches and churches while liquor stores remained open and large protests were permitted. Klink suggested that recent disclosures, including those from Dr. Anthony Fauci's diaries, are challenging the narrative promoted by Democrats regarding the pandemic.

Newsom, however, framed his comments as a commitment to learning from past actions. "Political leaders must own those excesses and continue trying to be better and do better," he said.

George Andrews, communications director for the California State Assembly Republican Caucus, expressed skepticism, noting that these concerns were raised by Californians years ago. "Californians were telling Newsom these restrictions went too far while he was imposing them," Andrews said. "Now that 2028 is on the horizon, he seems to agree. Better late than never. Welcome to the party, governor."

Newsom also addressed his potential 2028 presidential bid, telling CNN's Jake Tapper that he would not run if former Vice President Kamala Harris decides to enter the race.