Just four months removed from last year's recall election, California Gov. Gavin Newsom can't seem to remember the name of the leading Republican vote-getter in a failed effort to oust him.
The governor had trouble coming up with Larry Elder's name while unveiling his new state budget in Sacramento on Monday, specifically answering a question about homeless encampments in California.
Newsom referred to Elder as the "current radio talk show host who was one of the principle candidates," but fell short of actually naming his challenger ."I don't mean to say that blindly or dismissively. His name now escapes me.
Forgive me," he added.
Last week, Elder announced he would not challenge Newsom for governor again in 2022.
The conservative talk show host said he would instead form the Elder for America PAC to "focus on helping Republicans take back the House and Senate, in addition to local races that effect safety and education."
Other Republican candidates looking to replace Newsom last year included Kevin Faulconer and John Cox, both of whom have remained silent on plans for a possible gubernatorial run later this year.
Watch the governor's budget address here.
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