Is James Woods right about Gavin Newsom? Hollywood Actor slams California Governor’s ‘atrocious’ record
James Woods ‘Once Upon a Time in America’ film premiere at the New York Film Festival. Image Credit: Dave Allocca/StarPix/REX/Shutter
Veteran Hollywood actor James Woods has launched a sharp critique of California Governor Gavin Newsom, warning that the Democrat’s growing national profile masks what he describes as deep-rooted leadership failures in the Golden State. Speaking on Fox News’ One Nation with Brian Kilmeade, Woods argued that Newsom’s perceived momentum as a future presidential contender will fade once voters examine his governing record.
Woods’ comments come as Newsom increasingly appears in national political conversations amid speculation about the Democratic Party’s future leadership heading toward the 2028 election cycle.
James Woods Warns Against Newsom’s National Rise
During his appearance, Woods said Newsom is benefiting from what he called a “power vacuum” within Democratic leadership, dismissing other prominent figures floated as party leaders.
“They have no leader,” Woods said, adding that Newsom is filling the void not because of achievement, but because of visibility.
The actor cautioned that name recognition should not be mistaken for competence, arguing that Newsom’s early appeal could fade under closer scrutiny.
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Wildfires and State Management at the Center of Criticism
One of Woods’ most pointed criticisms focused on California’s wildfire response. The actor, who has experienced fires near his own home, argued that poor land and brush management, not climate change, played a decisive role in destruction across affected neighborhoods.
Woods described how homes that followed fire department guidance, including brush clearing and hillside terracing, were more likely to survive, while nearby properties burned down.
He further alleged that a state-controlled parcel of land near his neighborhood had not been properly cleared since a fire in 1978, calling it a dangerous ignition point.
Blaming Climate Change ‘Avoids Accountability,’ Woods Says
According to Woods, state leadership has repeatedly deflected responsibility by blaming climate change rather than addressing preventable failures in forest and land management.
He described climate change rhetoric as a political “boogeyman,” arguing it distracts from actionable solutions and basic maintenance that could mitigate fire damage.
San Francisco’s Decline Cited as Broader Leadership Failure
Beyond wildfires, Woods pointed to San Francisco as another example of what he sees as deteriorating governance under Democratic leadership.
Referencing the city’s widely discussed “poop map,” Woods criticized conditions that, in his words, forced tourists to navigate streets littered with human waste and drug paraphernalia.
“One of the most beautiful cities in the history of this nation had to create a map to avoid human waste,” he said, calling it emblematic of broader urban decline.
Woods argued that cleanup efforts appear temporary and selective, often tied to high-profile visits rather than consistent care for residents.
Political Commentary From Hollywood Gains Attention
Woods, an outspoken conservative voice in Hollywood, has long used media platforms to comment on political issues. His remarks reflect a growing trend of entertainers weighing in on governance, leadership, and national policy debates.
As Newsom’s visibility increases on the national stage, Woods’ critique adds to a broader conversation about California’s policies, public safety, wildfire preparedness, and urban management.
What’s Next?
While Gov. Newsom has not publicly responded to Woods’ comments, the debate underscores how California’s challenges, wildfires, crime, and cost of living, are likely to follow the governor into any national political ambitions.
With 2028 discussions already underway, scrutiny of leadership records appears set to intensify.
FAQ
Who is James Woods?
James Woods is an award-winning American actor known for films such as Casino, Salvador, and Ghosts of Mississippi. He is also a prominent political commentator.
What did James Woods say about Gavin Newsom?
Woods criticized Gov. Gavin Newsom’s leadership, calling his record in California “atrocious” and warning that his national political appeal will not last.
Why did James Woods criticize California’s wildfire management?
Woods argued that inadequate brush clearing and land management, rather than climate change, contributed significantly to wildfire destruction in California.
Did James Woods experience wildfires personally?
Yes. Woods said his home survived nearby fires because he followed fire department guidelines, while neighboring homes that did not take precautions burned down.
What is the ‘San Francisco poop map’ mentioned by Woods?
The “poop map” refers to a public reporting tool used to track human waste on city streets, often cited as a symbol of San Francisco’s sanitation challenges.
Is Gavin Newsom running for president?
Gov. Newsom has not officially announced a presidential campaign, but he is frequently mentioned as a potential Democratic contender for 2028.
Has Gavin Newsom responded to James Woods’ comments?
As of now, there has been no public response from Gov. Newsom regarding Woods’ remarks.
Why are celebrities commenting on politics more often?
Many public figures use their platforms to influence political discourse, particularly on issues that directly affect their communities.
