Hunter Biden praised Gov. Gavin Newsom as the Democratic Party’s "greatest warrior" in a MeidasTouch interview, while also naming Andy Beshear and Josh Shapiro as part of a strong Democratic bench. He expressed frustration with partisan labels and disappointment in Democratic leadership in Congress and the Senate. Biden lauded NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani and acknowledged he is "completely biased" about the presidential pardon his father granted him. His remarks coincided with President Biden's visit to Syracuse University for a portrait unveiling.
Hunter Biden Slams Democratic Leadership, Hails Gavin Newsom as Party’s "Greatest Warrior"
Hunter Biden called Gavin Newsom the greatest warrior Democrats have during an interview posted to X, April 14, 2026.(Getty Images)
Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, praised California Governor Gavin Newsom as the Democratic Party's "greatest warrior" during an interview posted to social media on Tuesday. Speaking with Luke Radelin for MeidasTouch, he said the party has a strong bench and singled out Newsom for his forceful public style.
"I think that we have an incredibly strong bench. I think that Gov. Newsom is probably the most articulate and greatest warrior we have out there — really loves the way in which he calls out the president," Biden told Radelin.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris in conversation with Rep. Lateefah Simon discussing her book, "107 Days" at the Henry J. Kaiser Center For The Performing Arts in Oakland, Calif., March 3, 2026.
Biden also mentioned Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro as part of that emerging lineup, saying a clear leader will likely emerge over time. At the same time, he expressed frustration with partisan labels and national leadership.
"But more than anything, we just have to unify — not just as Democrats. I’m kind of sick of party labels. I am disappointed in much of the Democratic Party, leadership in Congress, in the United States Senate," he said.
He went on to praise New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, calling Mamdani's election and current leadership inspiring. Biden also acknowledged his personal stake in matters related to presidential pardons.
President Joe Biden and son Hunter Biden
"I’m completely biased as it relates to what my dad did for me. I fully understand how uniquely situated I am in being privileged enough to have received a pardon from my father," he said.
The interview included a pointed remark about the current political landscape: "I don't think that the founders ever imagined Donald Trump. I don't think they ever imagined the Trump family."
Separately, President Biden visited his alma mater, Syracuse University, to unveil a portrait that will be placed in the law school's Law Library Reading Room. During remarks there, he compared a Black member of the university’s Board of Trustees to former President Barack Obama, drawing laughter when he said, "I always want to turn around to one guy and say … 'Barack, what are you doing?'"
What This Means
Hunter Biden's comments reflect both an endorsement of several rising Democratic figures and public frustration with the party’s national leadership. His candid acknowledgment of bias over his pardon underscores the personal dimension of his political commentary.
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