California Governor Gavin Newsom defended his administration's handling of the state's high-speed rail project and economic policies during an appearance on HBO's 'Real Time with Bill Maher.' The discussion covered Newsom's leadership, including his approach to mimicking former President Donald Trump's style and the ongoing legal battle with Fox News.
Core Facts:
- Bill Maher criticized Newsom for imitating Trump's style, citing a social media post mocking Trump's limited-edition passports and Newsom's defamation lawsuit against Fox News. Newsom defended his actions as a way to highlight Trump's presidency.
- Newsom rejected claims that the high-speed rail project costs $231 billion, asserting that the current segment is $119 million and that the project is back on track after inheriting a "mess" from previous administrations.
Deeper Dive & Context:
Criticism of Newsom's Leadership:
Maher challenged Newsom on California's surging gas prices, which are the highest in the nation, and the state's affordability crisis. Newsom countered by highlighting California's status as the fourth-largest economy.
High-Speed Rail Project:
Newsom defended the rail project, stating that it has been "put back on track" and that environmental and legal hurdles have been resolved. He emphasized that the project is now moving forward with actual construction.
Defamation Lawsuit Against Fox News:
Newsom filed a lawsuit against Fox News in 2025, alleging that the network misconstrued a phone call he had with Trump. Maher compared this action to Trump's tendency to sue the media, but Newsom defended it as necessary to combat defamation.
Trump's Influence and Rhetoric:
Newsom condemned the shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, attributing the rise in divisive rhetoric to Trump's presidency. He argued that Trump sets the tone for the country and contributes to a "sewer" of political discourse.
Diverse Perspectives:
- Maher's Criticism: Maher urged Newsom to abandon the high-speed rail project, calling it a financial burden. He also questioned Newsom's mimicry of Trump's style, suggesting it was counterproductive.
- Newsom's Defense: Newsom maintained that his actions are aimed at holding Trump accountable and that the rail project is progressing despite past challenges.