California Governor Gavin Newsom is finding himself in another cringe-worthy moment as he gears up for a potential presidential run in 2028. His office’s recent social media blunder illustrates just how high the stakes are as he attempts to navigate public perception. During a discussion of National Guard policies at the New York Times Dealbook Summit, Newsom struck a dubious cross-legged pose, which quickly became fodder for online mockery.
The New York Post didn’t hold back. It described Newsom’s “odd ‘testicle-crushing’ sitting pose” that drew immediate attention from social media users. The 58-year-old governor, expected to lead the Democratic ticket, found himself at the center of jokes rather than serious dialogue. As the Post reported, “The internet had a ball Thursday mocking California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s weirdly tense style of cross-legged sitting.” Such an unflattering portrayal is damaging for any politician, especially one eyeing higher aspirations.
In a misguided attempt at redemption, Newsom’s press office retaliated with a vulgar, allegedly photoshopped photo meant to poke fun at the backlash. “Democracy requires flexibility,” they captioned the image. However, this response backfired spectacularly. Social media erupted once again, filled with disbelief at the poor choice to escalate an already embarrassing situation. Mark Mitchell of Rasmussen Reports expressed what many were thinking when he tweeted, “Whoever runs this account needs to be fired.”
As commentators dissected Newsom’s peculiar responses, many voiced their concerns about his capability as a serious candidate for the presidency. “This is literally not the flex you think it is,” tweeted one user, drawing attention to the disconnect between his campaign ambitions and the viral implications of his behavior. Such moments can undermine an image, particularly for someone vying for the top position in the nation.
Politico recently highlighted the irony that Newsom faces—a promising career and significant skepticism regarding his suitability for leadership. “There may not be a modern political figure who was simultaneously so well-positioned to be his party’s nominee and so doubted by the smart set since, well, Joe Biden in 2020,” the publication observed. The question remains: can he recover from these missteps as he contemplates a candidacy that many are already speculating about?
This incident underscores the precarious nature of modern political life, where a single misstep can spiral into a public relations nightmare. For Newsom, the road to 2028 may require more than just public appearances and bold aspirations; it will demand a keen sense of how to manage the spotlight, even in uncomfortable situations. As humor and ridicule fill social media, the pressing need for a more grounded approach becomes evident.
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