Gavin Newsom Lashes Out at ‘Son of A Bitch’ Joe Rogan, Demands Spot on Podcast: ‘Have Me On’
California Governor Gavin Newsom took direct aim at podcaster Joe Rogan during a recent appearance on the YouTube show Higher Learning, using vulgar language to challenge Rogan and push for an invitation to appear on his popular program.
“Joe, why won’t you have me on the show?” Newsom asked hosts Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay in a teaser clip. “It’s a one-way [conversation] and he has guests coming on, attacking and bashing, but he won’t have me on the show. Full stop. He should have me on the show.”
Newsom appeared irritated by Rogan’s recent criticisms, including remarks that accused the Democrat of running California into the ground while angling for a future White House bid. Rogan had said, “You can’t ruin a city and then go on to ruin a state and then say, ‘Guys, that was just practice. Once I get in as president I’m going to fix it all.’”
The governor didn’t hold back in his response.
“I’m not afraid to go — I’m punching Joe Rogan, that son of a bitch is not used to that,” Newsom said, escalating his rhetoric. “He’s gonna dismiss it, he’s gonna laugh it off, tough guy and all that. But is he gonna have me on? I don’t know.”
Newsom also acknowledged the podcast’s reach and influence, suggesting he’s ready to confront Rogan on-air despite their opposing views.
The moment came as part of a broader discussion, where Newsom also criticized his own party’s lack of grassroots engagement, saying, “Where the hell is the Democratic Party? Where’s our equivalent of Turning Point USA? Nowhere to be found.”
The governor’s media appearance follows a wave of criticism over his handling of homelessness, crime, and high taxes in California. While Newsom has not declared any intent to run for president, speculation has swirled for months, especially after several high-profile national media appearances.
Rogan, who hosts one of the most listened-to podcasts in the country, has not yet publicly responded to Newsom’s challenge.