Gavin Newsom's Social Media Strategy: Mimicking Trump to Boost Democratic Support

California Governor Gavin Newsom is employing an innovative and controversial strategy across social media, aiming to energize Democratic voters and provoke Republican ire. This strategy involves a clear imitation of former President Donald Trump's posting style, using all caps, exaggeration, even deliberate misspellings, and insults.

The Strategy's Impact and Newsom's Ambitions

Newsom's posts on social platforms have seen a notable rise in popularity, especially among Democrats who are enthusiastic about a politician unafraid to engage in heated online discussions. Newsom is seen as a potential presidential candidate in 2028, and this strategy appears to be a core part of his plan to pave his way toward his political future.

Parody Tactics

One of the most prominent aspects of Newsom's strategy is his skill in sarcastically mimicking Trump's style, which puts Republican critics in an awkward position; they implicitly criticize Trump's style when they attack Newsom. Newsom has gone further, posting AI-generated images and memes of his face carved onto Mount Rushmore, and publishing a meme falsely claiming "global calls" for him to win the Nobel Peace Prize, targeting Trump's obsession with the award. He also concludes many of his posts with "THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONCERN!", a phrase often used by Trump. These tactics also include selling "MAGA"-style merchandise and copies of Bibles, referencing Trump's marketing campaigns. Source.

Effectiveness of the Strategy and Its Political Impact

An Emerson College poll (dated August 29, 2025, according to the Daily Mail) showed that Newsom's support among Democrats has doubled, confirming the effectiveness of this new strategy. This move is a "rare venture from a mostly serious and moderate party politician into something playful, unrestrained, and audacious," breaking traditional political molds and giving Newsom a strong and controversial presence on the American political scene. Source. These tactics also aim to stir controversy around the country's redistricting issues. Source.