California Governor Gavin Newsom recently acknowledged a reality long observed by many in the Christian and conservative community: young men in America are in crisis. Speaking at a press conference, Newsom admitted that Democrats have “not invested as much energy as they should” in reaching young men, contrasting his party’s muted response with the visible and intentional efforts of conservative leaders such as Charlie Kirk.

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Newsom’s comments came as he unveiled a new state initiative calling for 10,000 young men to serve as mentors, coaches, and tutors through volunteer programs. The governor framed this as a response to the growing epidemic of loneliness and higher-than-average suicide rates plaguing young men and boys. He further reflected on the tragic murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, whom he had recently interviewed on his podcast and praised for his ability to engage young men effectively.

“We have an epidemic of loneliness, and so much of that is manifesting and metastasizing online in very profound and consequential ways, and last week only underscored that further,” said Newsom, referencing Kirk’s killing at a Utah university campus. A 22-year-old man, Tyler Robinson, was charged Tuesday with aggravated murder in the case. Newsom, speaking in a high school gymnasium and then a weight room, said Democrats in last year’s election had failed to effectively respond to conservatives’ outreach to young men, calling their response “mixed or muted.” “And I thought that was a mistake. I still do,” he said.

The governor’s remarks carried both political and personal weight. He acknowledged the power of Kirk’s influence, recounting how even his own son admired Kirk and was shaken by news of his death. Newsom also challenged his party, warning against the fear that focusing on the needs of men somehow undermines gender equality. Instead, he recognized the urgency of addressing the isolation, disconnection, and identity struggles confronting young men today.

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(Excerpt from POLITICO. Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)