Gov. Gavin Newsom targets Florida in new ad: ‘Join us in California where we still have freedom’

California Governor Gavin Newsom is targeting Florida in his newest ad for reelection.

As noted by Business Insider, the ad, which will be airing in Florida, is scheduled to air on Fox News starting on Independence Day (July 4th). In it, Newsom takes aim at Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and his many controversial policies.

“Its Independence Day so let’s talk about what’s going on in America,” Newsom says in the ad. “Freedom is under attack in your state, Republican leaders, they’re banning books, making it harder to vote, restricting speech in classrooms, even criminalizing women and doctors.”

“I urge all of you living in Florida to join the fight—or join us in California, where we still believe in freedom: Freedom of speech, freedom to choose, freedom from hate, and the freedom to love,” Newsom continued. “Don’t let them take your freedom.”

DeSantis’ campaign quickly mocked Newsom’s ad, with spokesman Dave Abrams telling CNN: “Gavin Newsom might as well light a pile of cash on fire. Pass the popcorn for his desperate attempt to win back the California refugees who fled the hellhole he created in his state to come to Florida.”

He added, “The people of Florida pay no mind to the pathetic smear campaigns from the Democrats and their allies in the corporate media. We’re too busy enjoying the freedom Governor Ron DeSantis has created in the Sunshine State.”

Nikki Fried, a Democrat looking to unseat DeSantis as Governor of Florida responded to the ad by telling Newsom in a Tweet, “Thanks, but I’ve got him.”

This heightened tension between Newsom and DeSantis has stirred rumors that Newsom could run for President in 2024. If so, it’s a possibility that he could face DeSantis, who many Republicans hope to see as a presidential candidate. However, neither of the men have said if they intend to run for president in 2024.