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McCarthy Slams Newsom, Calls California's Leadership a 'Failure'

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/1 .. som-calls-california-s-leadership-a-failure.html
  Published in House and Home on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 15:56 GMT by Fox News
      Locales: California, UNITED STATES

Friday, February 13th, 2026 - Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has launched a scathing critique of California Governor Gavin Newsom's leadership, asserting the state is experiencing a clear "downward slope" and labeling his governance a "failure." Speaking in a Fox News interview today, McCarthy, who previously represented California's 20th congressional district, expressed deep concern for the future of the Golden State, pointing to persistent issues of homelessness, rising crime rates, and an exodus of businesses as key indicators of systemic problems.

"I really see California on a downward slope," McCarthy stated on 'Fox & Friends.' "It started years ago, and it's just continued to get worse. And I think it's because of Gavin Newsom's leadership - the failures he's had."

The former Speaker's assessment is not new, but it carries weight given his long-standing connection to California and previous position of power. It also taps into a wider, increasingly vocal narrative - primarily from conservative circles - that the state's progressive policies, while well-intentioned, have inadvertently created conditions that are detrimental to its economic and social wellbeing.

A Multifaceted Crisis

McCarthy specifically highlighted the homelessness crisis as a prime example of Newsom's failings. California consistently boasts one of the highest, if not the highest, homeless populations in the nation. While the causes are complex - including soaring housing costs, mental health challenges, and addiction - critics argue that the state's policies haven't effectively addressed the root problems and, in some cases, have even exacerbated them. The visible suffering on the streets of major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco presents a constant and troubling image.

Furthermore, the issue of crime remains a significant concern. While crime statistics can fluctuate and are subject to varying interpretations, perceptions of increased lawlessness and a decline in public safety have grown in recent years. Businesses, citing concerns about theft and vandalism, have reported losses and, in some instances, have chosen to relocate to states perceived as more business-friendly. This creates a damaging cycle, eroding the state's tax base and leading to further economic strain.

"Look at the homelessness crisis. Look at the crime. Look at what's happened to the businesses leaving the state," McCarthy emphasized. "It's all related to the same thing: a lack of leadership."

Recent Efforts and Persistent Challenges

Newsom's office has not yet responded to requests for comment on McCarthy's statements. However, the Governor has acknowledged the challenges facing California and has taken steps to address them. Earlier this month, Newsom signed a package of legislation aimed at tackling the state's chronic housing shortage, a key driver of both homelessness and high living costs. The package included measures to streamline the approval process for new housing developments and incentivize the construction of affordable units.

However, these measures have been met with skepticism from critics who argue they are insufficient to address the sheer scale of the problem. They contend that the state's regulations and permitting processes remain overly burdensome, hindering development and driving up costs. Others point to the need for more comprehensive solutions addressing mental health care, addiction treatment, and job training.

The Broader Political Context

McCarthy's critique also resonates within a wider national political landscape. The debate over California's trajectory has become a focal point in the ongoing clash between progressive and conservative ideologies. Conservatives often point to California as a cautionary tale, arguing that its embrace of progressive policies has resulted in negative consequences for its economy and quality of life. Progressives, on the other hand, maintain that the state's challenges are the result of systemic issues like income inequality and lack of federal support, not the policies themselves.

As California continues to grapple with these multifaceted problems, the debate over its future is likely to intensify. The 2026 midterm elections will almost certainly feature these issues prominently, with both sides vying to frame the narrative and offer solutions. The outcome could have significant implications not only for California but for the nation as a whole, as other states watch to see whether the California model succeeds or fails. The state's innovative spirit and economic power mean its success - or struggles - are often seen as a bellwether for the rest of the country.