Rep. Kevin Kiley, R-Calif., has sharply criticized Democrat Gov. Gavin Newsom on Newsmax Tuesday, labeling him the "worst governor in America" amid mounting public dissatisfaction with the handling of the L.A. wildfires and record-low approval ratings.
Kiley leveled Newsom during an appearance on "The Record With Greta Van Susteren," highlighting what is described as catastrophic failures in the governor's leadership.
"In recent polling, [Newsom] has had the worst approval rating of any governor in the country," Kiley stated. "There is no doubt he is the worst governor in America, and his incompetence is now on just shocking display for everyone to see to such tragic effect."
Kiley's remarks come as Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass are fighting an effort to remove them from office fueled by growing criticism of their handling of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires.
The fires have ravaged more than 40,000 acres, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and claimed at least 24 lives, further intensifying scrutiny of the governor's leadership, The New York Post reported.
"Even before the utter failures in connection with the fires, there was significant bipartisan public disapproval of him," Kiley said, emphasizing that Newsom's challenges extend beyond the immediate crisis.
Kiley underscored what he described as a series of policy missteps that have compounded public frustration.
"The sanctuary state, the free healthcare for illegal immigrants, the high-speed rail boondoggle, all these crazy EV mandates — these are just a few examples of how out of touch his policies are," he said.
Despite the harsh criticism of state leadership, Kiley expressed optimism that the state could chart a new course.
"If there's any good news here, it's that we do have an opportunity to bring about major change in California, to bring some sanity back," he said.
"I met with President [-elect Donald] Trump a couple of days ago," he added. "I believe that you know, working with the White House, this Congress will be able to rein in some of the worst aspects of life in California under Gavin Newsom [and] will be able to bring [in] reforms.
"I do think that there is an appetite for a change of direction," he said.
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Jim Thomas ✉
Jim Thomas is a writer based in Indiana. He holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science, a law degree from U.I.C. Law School, and has practiced law for more than 20 years.
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