In a recent episode of "Real Time," host Bill Maher confronted California Governor Gavin Newsom over the state's extensive regulatory framework, a topic that has long been a point of contention for many residents.
Maher, known for his liberal stance, expressed his frustration with the burdensome nature of government oversight, particularly in light of his personal experience with costly inspections following the Pacific Palisades wildfires. "It's my roof!" Maher exclaimed, highlighting his belief in personal responsibility. "If it falls on my head, that's my problem."
During the interview, Maher pressed Newsom on the progress of reducing bureaucratic red tape, a promise the governor had made previously. According to Fox News, Newsom acknowledged the issue, stating, "It's our job" to address these hurdles. However, Maher was quick to question the effectiveness of these efforts, asking, "How's that going though?" Newsom pointed to the swift reopening of Interstate-10 and rapid debris removal as examples of successful emergency responses, but Maher remained skeptical.
The conversation took a critical turn as Newsom admitted that excessive regulation is "an indictment of liberal governance and leadership," conceding that the delays in projects like the high-speed rail and housing developments are a problem that "we own." Maher, in his characteristic style, challenged the governor on the practicality of the proposed high-speed rail route, which bypasses major cities like Sacramento and San Diego in favor of a less impactful path from Merced to Bakersfield. Newsom's lengthy response failed to address Maher's concerns directly, prompting the host to quip, "It's why you'd be a good candidate. You play this game well."
Maher further criticized the labyrinthine nature of California's bureaucracy, listing the numerous roles involved in the regulatory process, from "regulators, administrators, inspectors" to "project managers, fee accessors, special commissioners," and more.
He questioned the necessity of such an extensive system, asking Newsom, "Can't you take a chainsaw? Can't we DOGE the s--- out of these people?" In response, Newsom assured Maher that efforts to streamline regulations are underway, though he was quick to blame Republicans for establishing many of these rules and accused the GOP of exploiting the issue for political gain.
Maher's critique extended beyond the interview, as he recently warned Democrats that their party risks becoming obsolete, akin to the "Whigs," if they fail to embrace deregulation. This sentiment resonates with a broader conservative perspective that advocates for limited government intervention and champions individual freedom.
The ongoing debate over California's regulatory environment underscores the tension between maintaining necessary oversight and fostering an environment conducive to personal and economic growth. As the state grapples with these challenges, the conversation between Maher and Newsom highlights the complexities of governance and the need for pragmatic solutions that transcend partisan divides.
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