A video circulating on X shows California Gov. Gavin Newsom describing himself as an “established insurgent,” adding that he has “always had that mindset.” The clip comes as the Democratic Socialists of America’s influence grows within the party and amid discussion of Newsom’s potential 2028 ambitions. Online users reacted after the post highlighted the phrasing, with many questioning its consistency given his long tenure in elected office.
In the video, California Gov. Gavin Newsom is shown speaking at an event with a UAW banner visible in the background. He says, “I think what’s happening is there is a desire for change. I think this notion of insurgency over incumbency is the real message here, and people just want fighters. They want people with conviction, strength, clarity, people that get it, that wanna get things done. And they’re done with the status quo. And I totally respect that. I’ve long felt like I’ve been an established insurgent. I always had that mindset. I’ve been in elected office a long time, but have never been naive about people’s desires for change, including my own desire for change.”
According to the accompanying post, the remarks come as the Democratic Socialists of America’s influence grows in the party, and the poster described them as part of an effort to chase relevance for 2028. The footage does not show the full context of the event or what Newsom said immediately before or after these lines.
Commenters Weigh In on Newsom’s Latest Description of Himself
Some users focused on the phrasing itself, with one writing, “‘Established insurgent,’ notice the absurd contradiction.”
Others questioned Newsom’s consistency, including a comment that “he doesn’t believe in anything” and another stating, “He is so fake and flip-flops with the wind.”
Several linked the remarks to political ambition, such as “he now must pivot and court the DSA contingent because he knows there isn’t another way to win the Democrat nomination for ’28” and “the only thing that motivates Gavin is whatever advances the ambitions of Gavin.”
A few highlighted his delivery, noting “his hand gestures have their own mindset” and “that hair gel reeks of desperation.”
The clip has since become part of the broader online conversation surrounding Newsom’s positioning within the Democratic Party. Viewers continue to discuss how the “established insurgent” framing fits with his long record in elected office and potential 2028 ambitions.
