Gov. Newsom receiving criticisms over recent comments over sanctuary policies in California

California's sanctuary policies have remained a controversial issue. Should the state's law enforcement be banned from using resources for immigration enforcement? The state made that a law in 2017 and now, the Governor is under fire for his recent comments about these policies.

"I inherited, just as I inherited sanctuary policy at the state, that the legislature wants to continue to change, as mayor I inherited sanctuary policy when I got sworn in. And it was too permissive and I closed a loophole as it relates to coordinating with ICE upon arrest. I'm happy to advocate for eliminating sanctuary policy," said Governor Gavin Newsom in a recent podcast interview.

It's these remarks that have some Republican leaders in California calling on Governor Newsom to end the sanctuary policy.

"We're ready to do that Gavin. We will introduce some language tomorrow and we'll get it inserted into a bill," said Asm. James Gallagher (R–East Nicolaus).

The Assembly Republicans' social media video went on to say that the state's sanctuary policies impact border patrol's job. On Friday, Governor Newsom and a group of Democratic leaders from Texas held a press conference to discuss redistricting. ABC10 tried to ask him to clarify his remarks on immigration multiple times, with no success.

Now, a spokesperson for the Governor pointed out that his whole response on the podcast was not used and clarified that California would not need these types of laws if Congress did its job to push comprehensive immigration reform. The Governor's' Office adds that state law helps ensure that all Californians are not scared of reporting crimes to the police.

Political analysts say the Governor's recent comments on sanctuary policies may start to confuse his Democratic colleagues.

"I think a lot of Democrats in the state of California are gonna be confused because the Governor really turned heavily on the Trump Administration after the feds brought in the National Guard and the Marines in Los Angeles, and the Governor's been almost like on the campaign trail," said Steve Swatt.

Analysts believe the Governor may have another motive for his comments.

"Almost everything that Governor Newsom does these days is viewed through the lens of politics, because it certainly seems like he is interested much more than ever before in running for president in 2028," said Swatt.

For the past few weeks, ABC10 has been asking the Governor for a one-on-one interview to have a conversation about immigration. The Governor's Office continues to deny our requests.