Newsom Camp Flustered That DeSantis Will Debate California Governor

California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a debate challenge to his counterpart and rival, Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis. Now that DeSantis agreed to the showdown, Newsom’s team appears to be suffering from buyer’s remorse.

Despite denials of current presidential ambitions, Newsom obviously attempted to elevate his national standing in recent months by attacking DeSantis. 

This led to a debate challenge that was ultimately accepted by the Florida governor and 2024 presidential candidate. Newsom boasted to Fox News’ Sean Hannity in June that he was “all in” to spar with his opponent over their accomplishments in their respective states. 

In an interview with Hannity last week, DeSantis accepted the challenge. “Let’s get it done,” he replied when asked. “Just tell me when and where we’ll do it.”

Newsom initially claimed he only needed “one day’s notice” before squaring off. However, he sent a notice to Fox News saying the first time he’s available for the face-to-face is three months from now. Hardly one day. 

The California governor has also raised issues with the format of the meeting. Newsom declared he does not want a live audience, as opposed to DeSantis, who proposed dividing the tickets to the event evenly between the politicians. 

A Newsom spokesperson slammed the idea of a live audience, calling the suggestion a “joke.” They alleged that DeSantis attempted to “hide his insecurity and ineptitude” with a cheering section.

Of course, there would be nothing to stop audience members from cheering for the California governor. Unless he is scared that the audience would heavily favor his Florida rival. 

On the flip side, DeSantis rejected giving opening remarks and instead opted for a two-minute video to be broadcast before the debate.

Each proposed different states in which to hold it, though the list for both included Georgia. And DeSantis asked for a much earlier schedule for the debate, which Newsom initially endorsed before apparently deciding he needed more time to prepare.

The Republican did offer one later date which fell into the range that the Newsom camp proposed. 

With common ground on both the site and date, it should not be difficult to pull off this event. That is, if Newsom seriously believes he can defend his record.