Morning Note

Gavin Newsom built up the courage to acknowledge what everyone already knew on Sunday: he’s probably going to run for president.

“I’d be lying otherwise,” he told CBS News upon declaring he’s considering a White House bid. “I’d just be lying. And I’m not – I can’t do that.”

Do we think the California governor would make a good chief executive? Not at all. But we can’t help but feel refreshed by his candid admission. Most politicians bizarrely refuse to express their obvious desire to be president until they officially launch their campaigns, instead robotically spitting out consultant-generated talking points when the press asks them about their future plans. It’s insulting to voters. Kamala Harris is the champion of the practice. 

Donald Trump speaking like a normal person instead of a carefully groomed swamp clone is one of the reasons for his continued popularity. Other political figures adopting his style, i.e. speaking like a human being, could be a win for everybody.

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