The Newsom Daily

The Newsom Daily - April 17, 2026

Governor Gavin Newsom faces scrutiny over using $1.5 million in PAC funds to purchase copies of his own book, according to multiple reports.

Book Purchase Controversy: The New York Times and other outlets report Newsom's political action committee spent $1.5 million buying copies of his book to boost sales figures.

Judicial Appointments: Newsom announced nominations of two judges to the Court of Appeal and named seven superior court judges, according to the California State Portal.

Budget Relief from AI Revenue: California lawmakers say revenue from the artificial intelligence boom is allowing the state to delay planned budget cuts, the Sacramento Bee reports.

Health Care Tax Proposal: California Senate Democrats have proposed a new tax on major companies to fund health care initiatives, KCRA reports.

Federal Clash: Deadline reports Newsom criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over what outlets termed a "Pulp Fiction prayer debacle."

Left vs Right: Left-leaning outlets like The New York Times focus on reporting the PAC book purchase as a factual development, while right-leaning sources like the New York Post characterize it as an "embarrassing tactic" and connect it to broader criticism of Newsom's spending on public relations efforts. Conservative outlets also highlight praise from Hunter Biden calling Newsom the Democratic Party's "greatest warrior."

That's your Newsom briefing for April 17, 2026.