
 ICYMI
 ICYMI Gavin Newsom’s Sh*tposting
 20 snips 
 Aug 30, 2025  Join Slate staff writer Luke Winkie, who explores Gavin Newsom's bold social media strategy in a humorous light. They dive into how Newsom is adopting shitposting tactics similar to Donald Trump to ridicule rivals and engage younger voters. The conversation touches on the implications of this approach for his potential 2028 run, the generational gap in political perceptions, and the reactions—both supportive and critical—from conservatives. Can humor transform political discourse? Winkie offers insightful takes on this evolving landscape. 
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Newsom’s Trump-Style Digital Pivot
- Gavin Newsom has adopted a Trump-style shitposting voice on Twitter and TikTok to ridicule Trump and push redistricting.
- The style both advances a policy goal and doubles as national positioning for a possible 2028 run.
French Laundry Backlash
- Hosts recalled the French Laundry episode where Newsom dined during COVID restrictions and faced major backlash.
- That moment stuck as a symbol of hypocrisy and harmed his public trust.
The Kid Rock AI Gaffe
- Newsom's press office posted an AI image showing Kid Rock endorsing him and then replied with an all-caps fake quote.
- Kid Rock denied endorsing him and Newsom's team doubled down with a dramatic all-caps reply.




