California Gov. Gavin Newsom spars with Fox News host Hannity over Joe Biden, immigration

California Gov. Gavin Newsom sparred with Fox News host Sean Hannity over President Joe Biden, immigration and the economy Monday night.

Newsom voiced his support for Biden, insisting he is physically fit for a second term as president, while dodging to answer whether supporters have urged him to run against the president.

When asked whether he believes Biden is “cognitively strong enough to be president,” Newsom said yes, noting that he talks to the president “all the time.”

“You never answered my question directly,” Hannity responded. “How many times does your phone ping a day, people saying you need to get in this race because they agree with me that he’s not up to the job.”

Newsom stammered somewhat before saying, “I’m not answering.”

While the California governor has repeatedly said he has no interest in running for president and has said he completely supports Biden’s reelection bid, Newsom’s effort to raise his national profile has fueled more speculation that he’s laying the groundwork for a future presidential campaign.

Hannity also defended Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ use of taxpayer funds to fly migrants to California.

“You are an open sanctuary state! Why don’t you embrace them,” Hannity asked.

“We embrace everybody here,” Newsom said. “I sat down with these migrants. I talked to every single one of them. They were lied to, they were misled.”

Contributing The Associated Press