Newsom Parodies Trump's Health Updates in Online Jab
Locales: California, Florida, UNITED STATES

Sacramento, CA - February 3rd, 2026 - California Governor Gavin Newsom's recent online jibe at former President Donald Trump, a mock health update posted on X (formerly Twitter), is being viewed as more than just a momentary digital spat. Political analysts suggest the incident represents a calculated escalation in the ongoing rivalry between the two figures, and potentially a preview of strategies Newsom may employ should he officially enter the 2028 presidential race.
On Monday, Newsom posted a message mimicking the format commonly used to disseminate health information regarding Trump, ironically detailing his own 'vigorous workout,' 'strength,' and 'vitality' while playfully acknowledging a need for 'occasional naps.' The post was accompanied by a photograph of Newsom in athletic attire. The intent was clear: a direct parody of the frequently released, and often scrutinized, updates concerning Trump's well-being.
The original post, while seemingly lighthearted, touches upon a sensitive point for Trump. During his presidency and in the years since, updates regarding the former president's health have been a subject of intense media and public interest, often fueled by speculation and conjecture. Newsom's mimicry aimed to highlight what critics view as an overreliance on curated health pronouncements, and to subtly suggest a lack of transparency.
The feud between Newsom and Trump has been simmering for several years. Newsom has consistently been a vocal critic of Trump's policies, particularly regarding environmental regulations, immigration, and social programs. Trump, in turn, has repeatedly attacked Newsom's leadership of California, characterizing it as ineffective and pointing to issues such as homelessness and high taxes.
"This isn't about a single tweet; it's about Newsom establishing a clear contrast with Trump," explains Dr. Eleanor Vance, a professor of political science at the University of California, Berkeley. "He's painting Trump as someone who needs to constantly reassure the public about his health, while presenting himself as a vigorous and capable leader. It's a carefully crafted narrative, and it's clearly aimed at a national audience."
While some have dismissed Newsom's post as petty and undignified for a governor, others see it as a savvy political move. The response on social media has been polarized, with supporters applauding Newsom's wit and detractors condemning the perceived childishness. However, the sheer volume of engagement - the post quickly became a trending topic - demonstrates its effectiveness in generating attention.
This incident follows a pattern of Newsom increasingly engaging with national political discourse. He has previously accepted debates with Trump's allies, like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and has been actively fundraising for Democratic candidates across the country. These actions have fueled speculation about his presidential ambitions, and many believe he is laying the groundwork for a potential run in 2028.
"Newsom is testing the waters," says political strategist Marcus Chen. "He's gauging public reaction to his direct attacks on Trump and seeing how he can effectively position himself as an alternative. The health update stunt, while unconventional, is memorable and generates media coverage. It forces Trump to respond, and that keeps Newsom in the spotlight."
Furthermore, the use of social media for these pointed exchanges reflects the evolving landscape of political communication. Traditional methods of campaigning are being supplemented - and sometimes replaced - by direct engagement with voters online. Newsom is proving to be adept at utilizing platforms like X to control the narrative and bypass traditional media gatekeepers.
The question now is whether this tactic will prove sustainable. Continually engaging in direct confrontations with Trump carries the risk of being seen as overly focused on one individual, potentially overshadowing Newsom's own policy proposals and accomplishments. However, for the moment, it appears to be a strategy he is willing to embrace as he positions himself for a potential future in national politics.
Read the Full New York Post Article at:
[ https://nypost.com/2025/12/02/us-news/gov-gavin-newsom-trolls-trump-with-phony-new-health-update/ ]