Recently, a 2021 video has surfaced, showing California gubernatorial candidate and former congresswoman Katie Porter instructing a staffer to “get out of my fucking shot.” The footage, highlighted by Politico, depicts Porter in an interview with CBS News California’s Julie Watts, where she reacted strongly to a question about the 40% of California voters who supported President Trump.
The clip features Porter discussing potential financial losses for California before she abruptly turns on a staff member in the background. “Stay away from my fucking shot!” she yelled without turning around. Following the outburst, the staffer attempted to correct her on comments regarding electric cars, which only provoked further yelling from Porter. “You were in my shots before that too. Stay out of my shots,” she continued.
The individuals present during the incident declined to comment when approached by Politico. This video, first shared in 2021, was recently pulled from social media after Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm mentioned it.
In response to this incident, Porter stated that she has been working on being “more intentional” about expressing gratitude toward her staff. “It’s no secret that I hold myself and my staff to high standards, especially as a congresswoman,” she noted, emphasizing her commitment to appreciating their work.
The resurfacing of this video comes on the heels of an interview in which Porter faced backlash for her criticisms towards Watts. She questioned why he needed Trump supporters to win, asserting her belief that they could win over voters who had not previously supported Trump. When Watts pressed her further, she became defensive, insisting that she could no longer engage in what she deemed a “fun, positive conversation.”
Porter’s reactions have drawn criticism from various quarters, including fellow Democratic candidate Betty Yee, who urged Porter to withdraw from the race. Yee described her as a “weak” candidate, arguing, “The curtain will be pulled back, and without scripted soundbites, voters will see that Katie Porter is unfit to lead California.” She expressed concern that if Porter struggles with reporters, handling real crises would be even more daunting for her, stressing the importance of accountability in government.
A recent Zogby Strategies poll indicated a shift in momentum, previously showing Porter leading Republican candidate Steve Hilton by 11 points, but now putting Hilton ahead by 6 after voters heard both candidates’ messages.
