California Gavin Gavin Newsom visits with supporters during a stop Thursday, July 4, 2024, at the Van Buren County Democratic Party Fourth of July reception in South Haven, Mich. Newsom offered a forceful defense of embattled President Joe Biden on Thursday, telling Democrats in Michigan that the 81-year-old president has the record and energy to win a second term despite widespread doubts about his ability to campaign or govern effectively.
Newsom acknowledged “a tough few weeks” during his remarks to picnic attendees, and he admitted he had to scrap his planned talking points when facing reporters in Atlanta after the debate. But he said Biden reassured him and other Democratic governors Wednesday at the White House, where the president acknowledged his flop but expressed determination to win his rematch with
Newsom did not address those explanations during his 15-minute remarks. He told reporters afterward that Biden referenced late nights “with a smile on his face.”that last last ten or so days , and I think that was what he was reflecting,” Newsom said. “It wasn’t a literal ‘at 8 o’clock I will be doing things differently,’ it was more figurative.’”
“I just was so encouraged by his optimism and speaking genuinely from his heart,” she said. “Which reminds me a lot of the character of Joe Biden.”