By Matt Underwood Newsom launches website tracking Trump’s top 10 criminal cronies, and it’s certainly generating a lot of buzz. The initiative itself, dedicated to keeping tabs on individuals associated with the former president who are facing legal challenges, is a bold move. It’s the kind of thing that can either be seen as a savvy political maneuver, or possibly a preemptive move setting the stage for 2028. Many are calling the effort “awesome” and praising Newsom’s ability to keep the pressure on. The launch of the website signals a clear intent to highlight what the governor sees as hypocrisy, especially from those who champion “law and order” while seemingly tolerating or even associating with individuals facing legal scrutiny.
The website’s focus, at least initially, on ten individuals associated with Trump makes sense from a strategic perspective. It allows for a concentrated effort to build a narrative around corruption and accountability. The fact that many believe this list barely scratches the surface of questionable actions reinforces the idea that the website serves a very specific and targeted purpose. The inclusion of AI-generated mugshots, while perhaps a cost-effective way to visually represent the individuals, has also stirred some discussion, with some pointing out that it could be perceived as a slightly dismissive approach.
The timing of this website launch is particularly interesting, especially when we consider that new data suggests California crime is continuing to drop. This is a crucial element that appears to be central to the governor’s strategy. By showcasing these figures, Newsom aims to contrast his administration’s success in crime reduction with what he frames as a culture of corruption and lawlessness surrounding Trump and his allies. This juxtaposition is designed to resonate with voters and strengthen his position. The political strategy to use facts, receipts, and pressure is exactly what’s needed to counter constant bad-faith attacks.
The response to this initiative is not uniformly positive, however. Some have voiced concerns about the optics, with some suggesting that the constant spotlight on Newsom feels orchestrated or astroturfed. They raise legitimate questions about whether this kind of focused attention is simply part of a carefully crafted campaign, designed to position Newsom favorably in the eyes of the public. Regardless of any potential hidden motives, the project is a very shrewd move if this crime data is accurate and shows a definitive trend.
Others view Newsom’s actions as part of a larger political strategy. They see this as a way to highlight what they perceive as the moral failings of certain political figures, especially when contrasted with the perceived successes of his own administration. The focus on “facts, receipts, and pressure” is a direct response to what’s often perceived as a barrage of bad-faith attacks. Newsom appears to be fighting fire with fire, putting Trump’s record under the microscope.
The conversation about this website is intertwined with larger political dynamics, including speculation about Newsom’s potential future presidential ambitions. Some believe that the timing is indicative of his interest in the 2028 race, using this as a platform to raise his profile and differentiate himself from potential competitors. On the other hand, others believe it’s too early to consider this as a definitive step toward the presidency.
The overall sentiment seems to be that regardless of what else is going on, this is smart politics and good governance. The project underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and the strategic use of data in modern political discourse. It reflects the understanding that in today’s political landscape, both sides have to play hardball.