Two well-known Democrats are now distancing themselves from the very behavior they long defended. California Gov. Gavin Newsom and social media activist Harry Sisson have both acknowledged the Democrat Party’s image has become, in their own words, “toxic.” The shift is raising questions about timing and sincerity.
Newsom made his comments during an interview with Bill Maher, saying the Democrat brand is in trouble. He blamed the decline in popularity on judgmental rhetoric and cancel culture — tactics his own party helped normalize. While claiming to still support his party, Newsom admitted that “we’ve lost our way.”
Polls reflect the damage. A recent NBC poll found that only 27% of Americans view the Democrat Party positively. Another from CNN showed 54% of respondents have a negative opinion of the party’s brand.
Sisson, who built a large online following promoting progressive talking points, surprised many by echoing Maher and Newsom’s assessment. His comment admitting the brand is toxic drew mockery online, with users pointing out that he spent years defending the same attitudes he now condemns.
The shift has led to speculation about whether this is a coordinated attempt to rebrand ahead of the 2028 presidential cycle. Newsom has been floated as a potential candidate, and his effort to appear more moderate may be part of a calculated move to win over disillusioned voters.
At the same time, Sisson is facing his own problems. He is embroiled in a Snapchat scandal that has put his credibility into question. Critics suggest he may be trying to clean up his image by distancing himself from the more extreme elements of the left.
Though they now say the culture of judgment has gone too far, both figures had no issue embracing it when it benefited them politically. Their sudden turn has left even some Democrats wondering what they truly stand for.
