Governor Gavin Newsom’s press office faces bipartisan backlash for a controversial social media post aimed at Kristi Noem, highlighting the dangers of inflammatory rhetoric.

Story Snapshot

• Governor Newsom’s office posted a controversial message on September 20, 2025.
• The post was perceived as threatening by officials, including a U.S. attorney.
• The message follows the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
• The Department of Homeland Security condemned the post, escalating the controversy.

Political Tensions Erupt Over Social Media Post

On September 20, 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom’s press office posted a message on X (formerly Twitter) stating, “Kristi Noem is going to have a bad day today. You’re welcome, America.” This statement quickly drew criticism, interpreted by many as a threat or inflammatory rhetoric, especially due to the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The post’s timing and tone have sparked a heated debate on the responsibilities of public officials regarding social media communications.

The controversial post by Newsom’s office has led to significant backlash, with calls from both sides of the political aisle for accountability. Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), publicly rebuked the message, calling it threatening and “ugly.” The U.S. attorney also labeled the post as “reckless,” linking it to the kind of rhetoric that could incite violence, further intensifying the scrutiny of political discourse.

Gavin Newsom faces backlash for 'reckless' post about Kristi Noem after Charlie Kirk's assassination https://t.co/MYBumzmaCS #FoxNews

— JCU Uribarri (@JcuUribarri) September 22, 2025

Backlash and Bipartisan Concern

In the wake of the social media post, the backlash has been swift and widespread. The DHS, led by Kristi Noem, formerly the Governor of South Dakota and now Secretary of Homeland Security under President Donald Trump, has condemned the post. The incident underscores the heightened sensitivity to violent rhetoric and the need for public officials to moderate their language, especially following the assassination of high-profile conservative figures.

The controversial message has intensified the ongoing debate about the role of political rhetoric and social media in modern politics. With both Newsom and Noem considered potential candidates for the 2028 presidential election, the incident has significant implications for their political futures. The public and media continue to scrutinize the intersection of free speech and its potential real-world consequences, especially in an era of deep partisan divides.

Implications for Future Political Discourse

The fallout from Newsom’s press office’s post has raised important questions about the responsibilities of public officials. The incident has highlighted the potential dangers of inflammatory language, particularly when amplified by social media.

As the controversy continues to unfold, it is clear that the incident will have both short-term and long-term implications for political discourse in the U.S. In the short term, there will likely be increased scrutiny of political rhetoric and potential changes in social media policies for public officials. In the long term, the episode could influence the dynamics of the 2028 presidential race and ongoing debates about the impact of online rhetoric on real-world violence.

The need for accountability and a more responsible approach to political communication is evident as the nation grapples with the consequences of divisive rhetoric. The situation underscores the importance of maintaining civility and respect in public discourse, particularly in an era marked by heightened political tensions and violence.

Watch the report; CBS faces EXPLOSIVE backlash over Kristi Noem edit

Sources:

Gavin Newsom faces backlash for 'reckless' post about Kristi Noem after Charlie Kirk's assassination:
A cryptic X post from California Gov. Gavin Newsom's press office remained under criticism Monday, with the acting U.S. attorney in California calling … https://t.co/KJweg9LRgr

— Elwin Sidney (@ElwinSidney) September 22, 2025

Fox News – Newsom office faces backlash for ‘reckless’ Kristi Noem post
The Hill – Trump allies criticize Newsom over Noem post on X
Benzinga – Gavin Newsom Faces Backlash From Trump Officials