Greg Gutfeld Slams Governors Gavin Newsom and J.B. Pritzker on Gutfeld! – Is Trump the Real Distraction?

In a fiery segment on his late-night show Gutfeld!, Fox News host Greg Gutfeld didn’t hold back when it came to California Governor Gavin Newsom and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. The outspoken pundit, known for his satirical commentary, took issue with the two Democratic leaders for focusing on President Donald Trump rather than addressing the pressing issues facing their states. The panel discussion quickly turned into a pointed critique of their leadership, and Gutfeld’s harsh words about the governors have sparked conversations across the political spectrum.

Gutfeld’s Disappointment in Leadership

During the August 2025 episode, Gutfeld wasted no time in calling out Newsom and Pritzker. His critique came after the two governors had spent considerable time publicly attacking Trump, especially as he ramped up his 2024 presidential campaign. According to Gutfeld, while Newsom and Pritzker were busy fixating on the former president, the critical issues facing their respective states were being sidelined.

“It’s hard to take this greasy guy seriously,” Gutfeld said, referring to Governor Newsom’s public appearances. “Instead of addressing homelessness, wildfires, and skyrocketing living costs in California, Newsom seems more interested in playing political chess with Trump.”

Gutfeld didn’t spare Governor Pritzker either, labeling his administration as one more focused on partisan squabbles rather than tackling Illinois’ fiscal crises, crime rates, and budget issues.

“It’s the same story with Pritzker,” Gutfeld continued. “We’re talking about crime running rampant in Chicago, a state drowning in debt, and what do we get? Another round of attacks on Trump. Are these the leaders we need, or are they just desperate to distract from their failures?”

Trump as a Distraction?

At the heart of Gutfeld’s rant was the notion that both governors were using President Trump as a distraction. He suggested that their focus on the former president was a smokescreen for their inability to address the most urgent problems in their states. In his view, the governors were perpetuating a cycle of political theatrics rather than addressing real-world concerns that had tangible consequences for residents.

“This isn’t about solving problems. This is about deflecting attention from what’s actually happening in their states,” Gutfeld remarked. “Instead of engaging in meaningful governance, these governors are more interested in making Trump the boogeyman, all while the people they represent are left dealing with rising crime rates and economic hardships.”

The panel, including conservative pundits and political commentators, nodded in agreement. They echoed Gutfeld’s criticism of political leaders who focus on personal vendettas rather than working on practical solutions for their states.

The Role of Trump in 2024 Politics

While the conversation took aim at Newsom and Pritzker, Gutfeld’s comments about President Trump were not entirely dismissive. He acknowledged Trump’s political dominance and the ongoing impact he had on American politics, especially as the 2024 presidential election looms. But rather than solely criticizing Trump, Gutfeld highlighted how some political leaders—particularly from the left—seemed to be using the former president as a convenient scapegoat.

“In reality, the more these governors focus on Trump, the less we hear about what they’re doing for their own constituents. It’s as if they’re pretending Trump is the problem,” Gutfeld said, making a pointed comparison between the political distractions and the lack of substantive progress in key policy areas.

Public Reaction: Is Gutfeld’s Critique Fair?

The backlash against Newsom and Pritzker’s priorities has been a topic of much debate. Critics of Gutfeld’s perspective argue that Trump’s behavior and political influence are central to the national conversation, particularly given his ongoing legal battles and his polarizing presence in the political landscape. However, Gutfeld’s supporters counter that the constant fixation on Trump detracts from the everyday issues that Americans are grappling with, such as inflation, crime, and housing affordability.

For many of Gutfeld’s viewers, his criticisms are seen as both valid and timely, considering the current political climate. His no-holds-barred approach and willingness to call out both sides of the aisle make him a prominent voice in American late-night television.

“I totally agree with Gutfeld,” one viewer tweeted. “Instead of focusing on Trump, these governors should be working on making their states livable again.”

Others, however, believe that the larger conversation around Trump’s influence is unavoidable, and that addressing his rhetoric and policy decisions is an essential part of political discourse.

Gutfeld’s Continued Critique of Mainstream Politics

This segment of Gutfeld! was just the latest in a series of sharp critiques the host has made of both Democratic and Republican figures who, in his view, prioritize political theater over tangible progress. His show’s success stems from its unabashed critique of both sides of the political aisle, and this latest salvo against Newsom and Pritzker is no exception.

For many of his fans, Gutfeld represents a voice of reason amidst what they perceive as a divided and ineffective political system. His combination of humor and hard-hitting analysis appeals to those frustrated by the lack of genuine leadership and concrete solutions in the American political landscape.

The Fallout: What Happens Next?

As the 2024 election season heats up, Gutfeld’s critiques of political figures—whether they are left-leaning or right-leaning—are likely to intensify. His brand of humor and political commentary has earned him a dedicated following, but it’s clear that he’s also tapping into a broader frustration with how politics is handled on the national stage.

While Newsom and Pritzker’s teams have yet to publicly respond to Gutfeld’s remarks, it’s only a matter of time before the criticism reaches their offices. The question remains: Will they engage in a back-and-forth with Gutfeld? Or will they continue to push their own narratives as the country hurtles toward another contentious election season?

For now, Gutfeld’s take on California and Illinois’ political priorities has added fuel to the fire of the ongoing national debate about leadership, accountability, and the real issues Americans want to see addressed.