Gavin Newsom Confronts Joe Rogan Over Viral Comments on His Leadership Governor Gavin Newsom of California unleashed a scathing response to a viral clip in which podcast host Joe Rogan criticized him during a 2023 interview, accusing Rogan of cowardice and hypocrisy. The exchange, which resurfaced in October 2025, sparked a heated public feud between the two figures, with Newsom accusing Rogan of avoiding a direct confrontation while simultaneously attacking his policies. The controversy began with a 2023 episode of Rogan’s podcast, where he discussed the 2024 presidential election with Patrick Bet-David. During the conversation, Rogan made disparaging remarks about Newsom, calling him a “f---ing con man” and criticizing his leadership in California. Rogan alleged that Newsom’s policies, including mandatory childhood vaccinations and his handling of the state’s wildfires, had ruined the state. He also mocked Newsom’s public health measures during the pandemic, claiming the governor had lied about being outdoors while unmasked. Newsom’s press office responded with a dramatic social media post, adopting a tone reminiscent of former President Donald Trump. The governor’s team mocked Rogan for allegedly avoiding a direct interview, stating, “JOE 'LITTLE GUY' ROGAN IS TOO CHICKEN TO HAVE ME ON HIS FAILING PODCAST BECAUSE HE KNOW I'D CRUSH HIM, SO HE TAKES CHEAP SHOTS FROM THE PEANUT GALLERY AS HE GETS RELEGATED TO IRRELEVANCY. ALL TALK, NO ACTION. I'M READY WHEN YOU ARE, 'LITTLE GUY.' OR KEEP HIDING!!!!” The post, published on Newsom’s X account, framed Rogan’s criticism as a sign of his declining influence and lack of courage. Rogan’s remarks had been part of a broader critique of Newsom’s governance.#california #gavin_newsom #podcast #joe_rogan #2023_interview
