Not everyone gets this number—The quiet favor raising eyebrows
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In the sun-kissed corridors of power in one state, a select group of individuals now possess a golden ticket to the governor's ear.
In a move that has raised both eyebrows and questions, has been quietly distributing secret cell phones to approximately 100 leaders of state-headquartered companies.
These aren't just any phones; they come with the promise of direct access to the governor himself.
Governor Gavin Newsom has provided top California business owners with private cell phones, each pre-programmed with his direct number.
Over the past few months, around 100 executives from state-based companies have received these devices, along with personalized notes from the Democratic governor.
The recipients, a who's who of California's business elite, received not just the high-tech devices but also personal notes from the governor, with one such note to an unnamed tech CEO reading, “If you ever need anything, I'm a phone call away.”
This gesture, confirmed by Newsom's office, was described as an initiative to foster a closer relationship with the business community.
Izzy Gardon, the governor's communications director, told KCRA, “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.”
The intention, according to Gardon, is to show unwavering support for the California business community, with the aim of maintaining the state's global economic dominance, creating jobs, and expanding industries.
But who foots the bill for these exclusive lines to the governor's desk?
Source: Straight Arrow News / Youtube.
The California State Protocol Foundation, a non-profit organization known for covering costs for the governor's ceremonial events, has taken on the financial burden for these phones.
The context of this initiative is as intriguing as the act itself. California, often referred to as the Golden State, has been experiencing a notable exodus of its wealthiest residents.
High-profile figures like Elon Musk and Joe Rogan have bid adieu to California's high living costs, relentless wildfires, and a political climate that has left many feeling bitter. An analysis of the migration patterns over the past three years shows a net loss of high-earning, well-educated workers.
Amidst this backdrop, Newsom's outreach to the business elite could be seen as a strategic move to stem the tide of departures.
However, it has not been without controversy. Newsom has faced criticism for his handling of the state's devastating wildfires and for allegedly funding a monument to commemorate his time as mayor of San Francisco, a claim his office has disputed.
Moreover, Newsom's efforts to engage with a broader audience, including conservatives, through his podcast, where he has interviewed figures like Charlie Kirk, Michael Savage, and Steve Bannon, suggest a governor willing to cross traditional party lines.
His podcast, which he promises will be “anything but the ordinary 'politician' podcast,” has been part of his broader strategy to connect with constituents.
Read next: Is your city next? How Trump’s shocking legal move could affect you
What are your thoughts on this exclusive access granted to a select few? Should such direct lines to political leaders be more democratically available? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below!
In a move that has raised both eyebrows and questions, has been quietly distributing secret cell phones to approximately 100 leaders of state-headquartered companies.
These aren't just any phones; they come with the promise of direct access to the governor himself.
Governor Gavin Newsom has provided top California business owners with private cell phones, each pre-programmed with his direct number.
Over the past few months, around 100 executives from state-based companies have received these devices, along with personalized notes from the Democratic governor.
The recipients, a who's who of California's business elite, received not just the high-tech devices but also personal notes from the governor, with one such note to an unnamed tech CEO reading, “If you ever need anything, I'm a phone call away.”
This gesture, confirmed by Newsom's office, was described as an initiative to foster a closer relationship with the business community.
Izzy Gardon, the governor's communications director, told KCRA, “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.”
Governor Gavin Newsom of California has been providing select business leaders with secret cell phones for direct communication. Image source: NordWood Themes / Unsplash.
The intention, according to Gardon, is to show unwavering support for the California business community, with the aim of maintaining the state's global economic dominance, creating jobs, and expanding industries.
But who foots the bill for these exclusive lines to the governor's desk?
Source: Straight Arrow News / Youtube.
The California State Protocol Foundation, a non-profit organization known for covering costs for the governor's ceremonial events, has taken on the financial burden for these phones.
The context of this initiative is as intriguing as the act itself. California, often referred to as the Golden State, has been experiencing a notable exodus of its wealthiest residents.
High-profile figures like Elon Musk and Joe Rogan have bid adieu to California's high living costs, relentless wildfires, and a political climate that has left many feeling bitter. An analysis of the migration patterns over the past three years shows a net loss of high-earning, well-educated workers.
Amidst this backdrop, Newsom's outreach to the business elite could be seen as a strategic move to stem the tide of departures.
However, it has not been without controversy. Newsom has faced criticism for his handling of the state's devastating wildfires and for allegedly funding a monument to commemorate his time as mayor of San Francisco, a claim his office has disputed.
Moreover, Newsom's efforts to engage with a broader audience, including conservatives, through his podcast, where he has interviewed figures like Charlie Kirk, Michael Savage, and Steve Bannon, suggest a governor willing to cross traditional party lines.
His podcast, which he promises will be “anything but the ordinary 'politician' podcast,” has been part of his broader strategy to connect with constituents.
Read next: Is your city next? How Trump’s shocking legal move could affect you
What are your thoughts on this exclusive access granted to a select few? Should such direct lines to political leaders be more democratically available? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below!
