Michael Ian Black criticizes Newsom for his ‘cartoon character’ social media trolling of Trump, urging him to ‘do your job’

Comedian Michael Ian Black Critiques Gavin Newsom’s Meme Strategy

Michael Ian Black, a comedian and CNN podcaster, doesn’t particularly admire California Governor Gavin Newsom’s approach to using memes in his campaign.

On his left-leaning podcast, Do I Have News For You?, co-hosted with Roy Wood Jr. and Amber Ruffin, Black discussed Newsom’s recent meme blitz aimed at attacking Trump, noting that it was filled with a mishmash of absurdity and praise for the governor as he gears up for a potential campaign in 2028.

However, Black expressed his disdain for this so-called “meme war.” He said, “I really dislike this. I know I’m in the minority. I can’t stand that he’s doing this. I don’t think politicians should be turned into cartoon characters, regardless of how effectively you can control an online presence.”

Representative Jasmine Crockett, while agreeing with the platform, didn’t seem to recognize any contradiction in her stance. She defended Black by saying, “We’re on the same team, but at the same time, your point highlights how MAGA supporters are flipping out over this.”

She acknowledged that while she finds Newsom’s tactics “ignorant” and “immature,” she also sees it as an effective strategy to hold a mirror up to people who may not realize what they’ve supported.

Canadian comedian Dave Foley chimed in, finding Black’s desire for more serious politics both quaint and charming. “Michael’s vintage craving for integrity is pretty adorable,” he remarked.

As the conversation continued, Black reiterated his criticisms, referring to Newsom’s tactics as “California GO” and remarked it felt like “sucking at the public’s attention.” He believes that others are addressing serious issues earnestly while Newsom takes a different, perhaps juvenile, approach.

Amber Ruffin, on the other hand, questioned the need for votes from those who prefer a more rational political discourse. “Those people are already voting Democrat,” she asserted. “We don’t need their votes. Let’s lean into the absurdity. Let’s make ridiculous memes and cartoons.”