Gavin Newsom’s Claim on "Latinx" Sparks Controversy and Debate

The Governor’s Denial and the Evidence Against It

In a recent viral podcast episode with Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, California’s Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom made a bold claim: neither he nor anyone in his office had ever used the term "Latinx." "By the way, not one person ever in my office has ever used the word Latinx," Newsom remarked, expressing confusion about the term’s origins and usage. However, a Fox News Digital investigation uncovered evidence that directly contradicts the governor’s assertion. A closer look at Newsom’s public statements, official documentation, and communications from his office reveals multiple instances where the term "Latinx" was indeed used.

The Use of "Latinx" in Newsom’s Public Statements

Governor Newsom’s own social media accounts and official communications provide clear examples of the term "Latinx" being used. In 2019, Newsom tweeted from his official government account about a study on childhood poverty, using the term in the context of discussing disparities within the Latinx community. Similarly, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Newsom referred to the disproportionate impact of the virus on the Latinx community in a personal tweet. He highlighted the state’s efforts to allocate $52 million for testing, contact tracing, and quarantine measures in affected areas, specifically mentioning the Latinx community.

In 2023, Newsom criticized Republican politicians for banning the word "Latinx," suggesting that the term was being unfairly targeted. While this statement may have been intended to highlight political differences, it inadvertently drew attention to the fact that his own administration had used the term on multiple occasions.

Official Documentation and Press Releases

The use of "Latinx" is not limited to Newsom’s personal or official social media posts. The term appears in various official documents and press releases from his office. In October 2020, the governor’s office used "Latinx" in a news release promoting a conversation between Newsom and singer Becky G about the "youth vote." This event was publicly advertised on the governor’s official website.

Earlier that year, in September 2020, the term was included in a press release addressing the impact of the pandemic on small businesses. The release stated that minority-owned businesses, including those owned by Latinx individuals, were disproportionately affected by the economic downturn.

The term has also been used in more recent communications. In 2021, Newsom’s office employed the term in a news release about addressing learning gaps caused by pandemic-related school closures. The release outlined efforts to allocate $25 million to support the safe reopening of schools, specifically targeting Latinx, African American, Asian American, and Pacific Islander parents.

Furthermore, the term "Latinx" appears on the governor’s website in descriptions of various initiatives, such as the First Partner’s "Farm to School" program, which aims to improve access to healthy foods for children. The website notes that Black and Latinx children face higher rates of food insecurity compared to their white peers.

Staff and Advisors’ Use of the Term

The use of "Latinx" extends beyond the governor’s personal statements and official communications. Members of Newsom’s staff and advisors have also employed the term in formal and informal contexts. For instance, Brooks Allen, Education Policy Advisor to the Governor, included "Latinx" in a 2023 letter about California’s Ethnic Studies model. The letter described the model as being grounded in various ethnic studies traditions, including Latinx American Studies.

Additionally, Michael Wiafe, a former education policy associate who now serves as Newsom’s assistant deputy cabinet secretary, used the term "Latinx" in a 2021 post on the social media platform X. Wiafe referenced the need for higher education reforms to improve outcomes for Black, Latinx, API, Indigenous, and Adult learner students, who he noted were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic.

Thečnýk popularity of "Latinx"

Despite its use in various contexts, the term "Latinx" remains widely unpopular among many Latinos and Hispanics. Critics argue that the term is not widely recognized or accepted within the communities it is intended to represent. According to a 2024 study by the Pew Research Center, 51% of Hispanic American adults were unfamiliar with the term, while only 4% reported using it. This lack of acceptance has led some to view the term as offensive or divisive.

The controversy surrounding "Latinx" highlights broader debates about language, identity, and representation. Proponents of the term argue that it provides a gender-neutral alternative to traditional labels like "Latino" or "Hispanic," which they see as limiting or exclusionary. However, critics argue that the term’s lack of cultural resonance and limited adoption undermine its intended purpose.

Conclusion: A Misstep in Communication?

The discrepancy between Governor Newsom’s claim and the evidence of "Latinx" being used by his office raises questions about the administration’s communication strategies and their understanding of the term’s cultural significance. While the governor’s office maintains that "Latinx" is not widely used by the administration, the documented examples suggest otherwise. A spokesperson for Newsom’s office acknowledged that some staff members had used the term, framing it as an occasional rather than widespread practice.

The debate over "Latinx" serves as a reminder of the challenges inherent in navigating evolving language and cultural identity. For political leaders like Newsom, whose offices often strive to appear inclusive and in tune with diverse communities, missteps in communication can have significant consequences. Whether the governor’s claim was an oversight or a deliberate misrepresentation, the situation underscores the importance of accurate and transparent communication in public office. As discussions about identity and representation continue to evolve, leaders must remain attuned to the preferences and sensitivities of the communities they serve.