Is Governor Gavin Newsom buying the loyalty of California’s elite? The Democrat leader has been caught distributing “burner phones” to tech executives across the state, raising serious questions about transparency and fiscal responsibility.
At a glance:
- Governor Newsom has been sending prepaid “burner” phones to California’s top tech executives
- Each phone comes preloaded with Newsom’s personal contact information
- The initiative targets CEOs of the top 100 California-based companies
- The phones are funded by the California Protocol Foundation, a nonprofit supporting gubernatorial expenses
- Critics question the transparency of these communications and potential violations of public records laws
Newsom’s Secret Phone Network
California Governor Gavin Newsom has established a private communication channel with the state’s wealthiest business leaders, sending them prepaid “burner” phones with his personal contact information already loaded. The controversial initiative, ongoing since November, specifically targets CEOs of California’s top 100 companies, creating a direct pipeline between the Democratic Governor and the state’s elite business class.
Each phone comes with a personal letter from Newsom, sometimes including handwritten notes encouraging executives to reach out directly to him with their concerns. Critics say the peculiar arrangement poses serious questions about transparency and special access for the wealthy while ordinary Californians struggle under the weight of failing policies.
Public Funds for Private Access
Newsom’s office confirmed that the phones are funded by the California Protocol Foundation, a nonprofit organization that exists to support gubernatorial ceremonial costs. While technically not taxpayer dollars, the arrangement still means that resources are being channeled toward providing California’s wealthiest executives with special access to the Governor, while less well off residents struggle to get by.
The Governor’s communications director, Izzy Gordon, defended the program, stating, “This was the Governor’s idea to connect more directly with business leaders in the state. The feedback has been positive, and it’s led to valuable interactions.”
Critics point out that California faces unprecedented homelessness, crime, and an exodus of businesses and residents, yet Newsom appears more focused on maintaining cozy relationships with tech giants.
Accountability Concerns Mount
Reporter Ashley Zavala noted that “some in the tech industry were at first skeptical and had security concerns when they received the phones.” Nevertheless, Newsom’s administration has continued distributing the devices.
While businesses flee California due to oppressive regulations and high taxes, Newsom appears more interested in maintaining backdoor communications with those wealthy enough to remain. The left-wing Governor is also facing separate criticisms for his new podcast, during which he has sat down with prominent right-wing figures including Charlie Kirk, infuriating liberal Californians. Revelations about cosy links with the wealthiest will likely add fuel to that fire.
