A Democratic governor is using Trump-style tactics to target Republicans—what could go wrong?
Story Highlights
- California Governor Gavin Newsom adopts Trumpian social media tactics.
- Strategy aims to counter MAGA rhetoric and gain national attention.
- Fox News and conservative media react with criticism and surprise.
- Newsom’s approach raises questions about political discourse norms.
Newsom’s Trumpian Turn: A New Digital Strategy
In an unprecedented move, California Governor Gavin Newsom has adopted the confrontational social media style pioneered by none other than Donald Trump. This strategy, launched in the summer of 2025, marks a stark departure from Newsom’s previous, more measured online presence. By employing all-caps posts, satirical memes, and Trump’s signature phrases, Newsom aims to counter the MAGA movement’s rhetoric and elevate his national profile. This tactic, framed as “fighting fire with fire,” comes amid a redistricting battle with Texas, further intensifying the political landscape.
Conservative Media Reacts to Newsom’s Strategy
Newsom’s aggressive approach has not gone unnoticed by conservative media. Prominent Fox News personalities, including Dana Perino and Sean Hannity, have criticized the tactic, labeling it as “childish” and “performative.” Despite these criticisms, the strategy has garnered significant attention, with Newsom’s social media accounts gaining hundreds of thousands of new followers. This shift in Democratic digital campaigning reflects broader trends where trolling and viral content are increasingly weaponized by both parties.
This strategy has drawn mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a necessary adaptation to modern political communication. However, it also risks normalizing incivility and further polarizing the political discourse, potentially alienating moderate voters concerned about the degradation of political dialogue.
The Implications of a New Political Norm
Newsom’s move raises important questions about the future of political communication in the United States. If successful, this approach could redefine how Democrats engage online, pushing them towards more aggressive, meme-driven campaigns. However, the long-term implications remain uncertain. While the strategy has succeeded in energizing the Democratic base and putting Republicans on the defensive, it may also deepen cynicism among the general public and contribute to the erosion of civil discourse.
While some experts, like Steve Bannon, acknowledge the effectiveness of Newsom’s strategy in energizing his base, others caution against the potential risks of such tactics. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, both parties may need to reevaluate their approaches to communication and engagement with voters.
Sources:
KQED: Newsom, Trump, and How Trolling Got Co-opted by the Powerful
Los Angeles Times: Fox News Triggered by Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Trumpy Tweets
