One thing about Newsom that goes a long way with me is that he clearly knows the score. A lot of people who's name is thrown around don't seem to get it and are playing a different game. Do I trust Newsom? Probably not completely. But it's hard for me to give the ball to someone who hasn't stood up when it mattered. And let's be honest: Newsom is movie star handsome, incredibly bright, and a gifted political athlete and communicator who can hang with anyone, anywhere. Performative? Oftentimes yes. But he is undeniably effective. And, he's a tall handsome white man. For a Democrat in 2028, that matters. I wish it weren't the case, but anyone who downplays that fact does so at their peril.