Steve Garvey, a former professional baseball player for the Los Angeles Dodgers who is running for Senate in California as a Republican, got a brutal reception at a debate with three Democratic candidates this week.
Politico reports that Garvey "was repeatedly laughed at by people in the audience" during Monday's debate as he refused to answer questions about whether he'd vote for former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election.
"At that time, I will make my choice [about voting for Trump]," Garvey said when questioned directly, which led Democrat Katie Porter to quip, "Once a Dodger, always a Dodger."
Porter then added that "this is not the minor leagues."
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Politico notes that Garvey suffered "another brutal moment" when he tried to discuss his interactions with homeless people in California, as he said that he "touched them and listened to them."
Democrat Barbara Lee, who was once herself homeless after leaving an abusive relationship, pounced on Garvey's remark.
"I’ve just gotta say, as someone who’s been unsheltered, I cannot believe how he described his walk and touching," said Lee, whose remark prompted the audience to "burst into laughter."
Garvey had another head-scratching moment when he discussed how he came to decide on his policy positions.
“I knew I needed to explore California," he said. "I needed to talk to the people. Policy for me is a position. I’ve taken strong positions.”