Former California Representative Katie Porter is facing a fresh wave of attacks from her gubernatorial opponent, who has launched a new advertisement utilizing Porter’s own words against her. The ad features a spectacular meltdown she had during a recent interview with a CBS News journalist.
Antonio Villaraigosa, the former Mayor of Los Angeles, has released a three-minute commercial that showcases the entire, unedited confrontation between Porter and the reporter, where she appeared abrasive and complained about not wanting to have an “unhappy experience,” even attempting to walk off the set.
At 51, Porter is leading in the polls for the role of governor in California, outpacing other candidates, including Villaraigosa. Nonetheless, she is encountering significant backlash for her juvenile demeanor, as past uncomfortable remarks have resurfaced this week.
The advertisement, touted as the first three-minute political commercial in California’s gubernatorial race history, began airing early Thursday on CBS stations, notably in the Sacramento market where the controversial interview was originally broadcast.
At the close of the advertisement—entitled “In Katie Porter’s Own Words”—Villaraigosa remarks, “We need leaders who will tackle tough challenges and respond to straightforward questions.”
The ad aired twice on Thursday, with a production expense of approximately $20,000, as stated by a spokesperson for Villaraigosa’s campaign.
The unexpected incident between Porter and the CBS reporter, Julie Watts, surfaced on Monday and quickly gained notoriety, as Porter accused Watts of being “unnecessarily argumentative.”
While addressing her potential support from Trump voters in the election, Porter questioned the necessity of their endorsement to secure sufficient votes.
Recent Developments Concerning Ex-California Rep. Katie Porter
- California Democrat’s temperament further scrutinized as she lashes out at staff over ‘bright lights’
- Gubernatorial candidate attempts to storm out during CBS interview following a meltdown about Trump
- Katie Porter verbally abused ex-husband, calling him ‘too f—king dumb’ for phone use according to court documents
- Gubernatorial hopeful scolds staffer during video call: ‘Get out of my f—ing shot!’
As she faced continued inquiries, Porter began to unclip her microphone, exclaiming, “I don’t want to keep doing this,” and “I don’t want to have an unhappy experience with you, nor do I want this recorded.”
Porter has a lengthy history of unorthodox behavior and confrontational interactions with her staff—actions that have drawn criticism.
Other candidates vying to succeed term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom have also joined in the criticism of Porter.
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“I’m not looking to exclude any votes. Every Californian deserves access to affordable healthcare, secure neighborhoods, adequate housing, and a livable income,” tweeted former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra.
Former State Controller Betty Yee even urged Porter to withdraw from the race.
“Katie Porter is a weak, self-destructive candidate who is unfit to lead California. The stakes are too high for her to continue in this campaign,” she tweeted.
