Vice President JD Vance has publicly criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for attempting to mimic former President Donald Trump's social media style. Vance emphasized that Trump's political success stems from his authenticity, a quality he believes Newsom lacks in his imitations. Vance advised Newsom to stop trying to replicate Trump's approach, calling it misguided and urging him to be genuine instead. Meanwhile, Newsom has been actively parodying Trump online, including teasing campaign merchandise similar to Trump's MAGA items and reposting a "Newsom 2028" flag, signaling a potential presidential run. This strategy has drawn mixed reactions, with some observers noting that Newsom's theatrics contrast with Trump's clarity and authenticity, while others argue that the imitation reflects a calculated political move. Newsom's adoption of Trump's style marks a departure from his previous stance of taking on Trump, highlighting a new phase in his political positioning ahead of the 2028 election cycle.
NEWSOM COPYING TRUMP? @MikeCrispi: Gavin Newsom is straight-up imitating Trump’s style—because the Democrats have no one else with charisma. Mock him all you want, but he’s setting up for a 2028 run. https://t.co/nwQhCH53t2
California Gov. Gavin Newsom teased campaign merchandise akin to President Trump’s MAGA items in a post Friday, a decision that coincides with his mimicking of the president on social media. https://t.co/L8Tf2STvl8
Taking on President Trump isn't new for Gov. Newsom, but imitating the president on social media is. https://t.co/OaFg6uSPB4 https://t.co/OaFg6uSPB4