New York Times Adds Dagger to Gavin Newsom's Book on Bestseller List

The New York Times has placed a dagger symbol next to the bestseller listing for California Gov. Gavin Newsom's memoir "Young Man in a Hurry," signifying that bulk purchases contributed to its sales figures. According to the New York Post, Newsom's political action committee, Campaign for Democracy, spent $1.6 million to buy copies of the book.

The dagger indicates a mix of organic and bulk sales.

A New York Times spokesperson stated that the dagger is added when there is reason to believe sales include both organic and bulk components. The symbol appeared under the book's description in early March, when it ranked No. 15 on the list. The New York Times website explains that daggers denote institutional, special interest, group, or bulk purchases, based on proprietary vetting, audit protocols, corroborative reporting, and statistical determinations.

" Additional records indicate $58,000 spent on merchandise and shipping to 18 bookstores nationwide. Newsom used his email list to promote the book, offering free copies to donors of any amount in a January email. In a February note, he encouraged supporters to help the book reach the New York Times bestseller list.

Fundraising Newsom reported selling 100,000 copies, with the PAC purchasing around 67,000 of them. Nathan Click, Newsom's political spokesperson, told the New York Times that the tactic generated fundraising and strengthened supporter relationships. The book is described as an account of identity, belonging, and moments that inspired a political career.

Newsom promoted it at events in cities including Atlanta, New York City, and Boston.

Texas Sen.

Ted Cruz used $122,000 in campaign funds for bulk orders of his 2015 book "A Time for Truth," leading the New York Times to temporarily remove it from the list. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' memoir "The Courage to Be Free" also received a dagger after bulk buys were found to contribute to its sales.