As Gavin Newsom edges closer to a likely 2028 presidential bid, he seems increasingly eager to reshape the narrative of his political journey in California, which began in 1997 with his role on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.

One of Newsom’s longstanding promises has been to address homelessness in San Francisco and across California. Despite his tenure as an SF supervisor, the city’s mayor, the state’s lieutenant governor, and now as governor, the situation has not improved and has arguably deteriorated. Yet, Newsom often distances himself from the ongoing crisis.

“This July, California counties will receive $1 BILLION under Prop 1 to expand affordable housing and provide essential services for those experiencing homelessness and facing behavioral health issues,” Newsom declared in early March. “No more excuses. Let’s see these tax dollars put to work.”