The View co-host Sara Haines has publicly criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for his social media strategy, which she likened to Donald Trump’s approach. On Friday, Haines argued that Newsom’s tactics of mimicking Trump are not only ineffective but also detrimental to the Democratic Party’s progress. She pointed out that while Newsom’s efforts have expanded his reach through podcasts and social media, her support has shifted to more substantive and authentic Democratic figures, including Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Senator Elissa Slotkin. Haines emphasized that true leadership requires staying true to one’s values, suggesting that Newsom’s reliance on Trump-like strategies is a reflection of his desire to compete in a space dominated by the former president.
Meanwhile, co-host Joy Behar defended Newsom’s approach, asserting that mocking Trump is a valid and necessary tactic to gain public attention. Behar argued that the goal of communication is to get one’s message across, and Newsom’s methods, while unconventional, have succeeded in capturing the attention of many voters. However, Haines countered that the public is increasingly tired of such tactics and prefers leaders who offer real solutions and substance. She criticized Newsom for not presenting a clear plan for governance and instead relying on humorous, Trump-like social media posts.
Newsom’s social media strategy has sparked a polarized debate within the Democratic Party. While some, like comedian Bill Maher, have praised his approach as a reflection of modern political communication, others, including former DNC chair Donna Brazile, have argued that the strategy is too unserious for the current political climate. Brazile emphasized that this is a time for substantive leadership and that humorous tactics should not overshadow the need for real action. Despite the mixed reception, Newsom’s press office account on X has gained significant attention for its Trump-like style, with posts such as ‘AMERICA’S FAVORITE GOVERNOR’ and mocking nicknames for critics. This has led to a broader discussion about the role of humor in politics and the effectiveness of different strategies in engaging with voters.
As the debate over Newsom’s social media tactics continues, the Democratic Party faces a challenge in balancing the need for creative outreach with the expectation for serious political engagement. While some leaders see Newsom’s approach as a way to connect with younger, more digitally savvy voters, others argue that it risks alienating traditional supporters who value substance over style. The ongoing discussion reflects deeper divisions within the party about how to navigate the complexities of modern political communication and maintain credibility in an increasingly polarized environment.
Despite the controversy, Newsom’s strategy has not gone unnoticed by the media, with outlets like Fox News Digital seeking comment from his office on the matter. As the debate over the effectiveness of his methods continues, it remains to be seen whether Newsom’s approach will resonate with voters or if the party will ultimately gravitate toward more traditional forms of leadership and communication.