California Governor Gavin Newsom’s press office found itself in the spotlight after a social media post referencing Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem as having ‘a bad day today.’ The remark was quickly referred to the Secret Service for a threat assessment, prompting widespread criticism from both Republicans and Democrats. Critics from both sides condemned the comment, with some calling it a thinly veiled threat.
Newsom’s press office posted the comment on Saturday, which drew immediate backlash from conservative figures like DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin and Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli. Essayli responded that there is ‘zero tolerance’ for threats against government officials, emphasizing that the matter was referred to the Secret Service. McLaughlin accused the press office of ‘ugly’ rhetoric, claiming it sounded like a threat from the keyboard.
Republican California Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez also joined the criticism, warning that such remarks could increase the likelihood of future political violence. Sanchez criticized the governor for ‘keeping his foot out of his mouth,’ adding that the comments were damaging to the political atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi confirmed that the agency had received the Department of Justice’s communication, noting that it could not comment on specific protective intelligence matters.
Despite the controversy, the press office later followed up with news of a legislative package aimed at protecting immigrant communities and holding Trump accountable. The package, signed by Newsom on Saturday, included a bill that prohibits most law enforcement, including federal immigration agents, from concealing their faces during official duties. Newsom emphasized at a press conference that the legislation was a response to ‘authoritarian tendencies’ and actions by the current administration, celebrating California’s diversity as a key strength.
The incident highlights the increasingly polarized political climate, with high-profile figures using social media to make pointed remarks that can lead to serious consequences. As the Secret Service conducts its threat assessment, the situation underscores the need for responsible communication, particularly in a politically charged environment.