Gavin Newsom Backs Marshawn Lynch for Oakland Mayor: ‘Go Beast Mode’
Tom Williams / CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images file
Former NFL star Marshawn Lynch might have a powerful ally if he decides to throw his hat into the ring for Oakland mayor—California Governor Gavin Newsom. In the podcast “Politickin’,” which Lynch co-hosts with Newsom and his long-time agent, Doug Hendrickson, the Super Bowl champion hinted at a possible mayoral run, as Oakland residents consider recalling their current mayor amid scandal, according to Politico.
During the podcast episode, Newsom and Hendrickson didn’t hold back in encouraging Lynch to go all in. “Go ‘Beast Mode,’” they urged, referencing Lynch’s iconic nickname from his football career. Newsom expressed optimism about Lynch’s potential candidacy, stating, “The bottom line is your favorable/unfavorable put you in a position against anyone else they polled in the field, which is some of the biggest names in California politics.”
He hinted that Lynch’s popularity even outshines some of the most well-known figures in the state. Though Lynch, a 38-year-old Oakland native, asked Newsom to keep his potential run under wraps, the governor disclosed that he had seen “private polling” suggesting strong support for Lynch among Oaklanders. According to the data, Lynch had a 43% favorable rating, with only 7% viewing him unfavorably.
“That’s off the charts, brother,” Newsom remarked, adding with a laugh, “Seven percent unfavorable? That never has happened in my life.” Hendrickson echoed Newsom’s sentiments, asserting that Lynch “is truly the people of Oakland.” He emphasized Lynch’s deep connection with the community, suggesting that if he does decide to run, he would embody the spirit of the city. Lynch’s decision is expected to come soon, as the timeline for the recall of the current mayor unfolds.
“You’re going to know in less than a month if the mayor is recalled,” Newsom stated on the podcast. “I’m not pro-recall generally, having been on the receiving end of them,” he added, referring to his own experience with recall efforts. However, he clarified, “I’m not here to judge.”
As Lynch weighs his options, the support from Newsom and Hendrickson hints at a potentially game-changing campaign. With his popularity and deep ties to Oakland, Lynch’s entry into the race could energize the city’s residents and shift the dynamics of local politics. Whether he ultimately decides to go “Beast Mode” in the political arena remains to be seen, but the buzz surrounding his potential candidacy is already making waves.
