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Speaking of astrology, did you know Newsom is a Libra? These are the counselors who have helped guide Newsom’s emergence over the past two decades as a national Democratic figure, and they will likely be there should he launch a long-anticipated presidential run. Cobia has now moved onto Newsom’s next big venture - she’s listed as treasurer for his “Campaign for Democracy” committee that is helping him venture into red states. Then there’s Lindsey Cobia, his longtime former deputy chief of staff who was known to stick with Newsom like a shadow, often seen darting around press events and major announcements. That misstep follows Newsom to this day (especially in Fox News circles), but it hasn’t been enough to sever ties. Or Jason Kinney, the longtime friend and adviser who caused Newsom a good deal of trouble in 2020 when the governor attended his swanky 50th birthday party at the French Laundry while encouraging Californians to avoid gatherings. Crowfoot eventually became the governor’s top climate aide. Their relationship stretches back to Newsom’s San Francisco days, when Crowfoot rose through the ranks by serving as the mayor’s liaison to the board of supervisors.
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Like Wade Crowfoot, California’s natural resources secretary and one of Newsom’s top environmental officials. But there are some he keeps closer than others. Take a scroll through Newsom’s contact list and you’ll find a wide array of business executives, lawmakers and policy experts that he’s known to text on a regular basis. Understanding Newsom’s network is key to understanding one of the most influential figures in American politics, and today, we’re laying out all the important players.įrom his days in San Francisco City Hall to stumping for Joe Biden, here are the folks who help make the governor the governor. California’s chief executive relies on a close circle of advisers, staffers and confidants to guide his policy and political strategy. The governor has been known to cast a wide net for advice, but his inner circle is much smaller. THE BUZZ: Oh, to be in Gavin Newsom‘s orbit.
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We’re thrilled to embark on this next iteration, and hope you’ll come along with us. It’s been eight years since we launched California Playbook, and, in the time since, our team has grown to more than a dozen journalists. We’ll still be here to bring you all the latest happenings in Sacramento and beyond, but expect more stories, more analysis and - most importantly - more scoops. NEW PLAYBOOK: As part of POLITICO’s exciting expansion in the Golden State, we’re revamping our must-read morning newsletter.
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