Governor Gavin Newsom has stirred significant controversy after unleashing another homophobic jab at a conservative commentator. His press office reacted to a post by Benny Johnson, stating that Newsom should be “terrified” due to ongoing fraud investigations in the state.
In a notable response, Newsom’s office quipped, “After this, Grindr called us and told us that your team was their largest user. Congratulations!” This remark was met with considerable backlash, marking an unusual number of mentions of Grindr in comments aimed at critics.
Critics, including Harmeet K. Dhillon, an Assistant Attorney General with the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, were quick to react. Dhillon emphasized how odd it is to see someone from San Francisco—known for its progressive stance—disparage homosexuality, adding, “Strange!” Another critic remarked on how Newsom’s team often invokes homosexuality to mock or shame others.
Johnson shot back at Newsom’s office, accusing the governor of slandering journalists exposing fraud within California. He asserted, “Your response to journalists exposing wrongdoing in your state is to paint us with lies. Americans are fed up with fraud.”
In defense, Newsom’s office shrugged off the homophobic allegations, asserting their appreciation for the LGBTQ+ community and even expressing empathy for offended conservatives. They claimed, “We love gay people!”
This is not the first time Newsom clashed with Johnson. Previously, his office has employed similar language, sometimes mirroring the aggressive tone often associated with former President Trump.
The office has yet to provide additional comments amidst the ongoing discussions surrounding the incident.
