The communications office for California Governor Gavin Newsom faced harsh criticism on Saturday due to a social media comment directed at Christie Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security, after she was introduced for a threat assessment by the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security.
In a somewhat puzzling post on X, Newsom’s office remarked that Noem was “having a bad day today,” which prompted backlash from conservative figures, including DHS public relations aide Tricia McLaughlin and U.S. attorney Bill Essayli from California’s Central District.
Newsom’s press office quipped, “Christa Noem will have a bad day today. You’re welcome, America.”
In response, Essayli emphasized that there is “zero tolerance” for threats against government officials, whether directly or indirectly implied.
McLaughlin described the post as “ugly,” interpreting it as a threat. She remarked, “Your keyboard warrior team might hide behind their laptop and spit this kind of vitriol, but you probably don’t have the courage to say this to her face.”
Republican Senator Kate Sanchez also criticized the remarks, telling Fox News Digital that such comments could escalate future political violence. She stated, “Our governor cannot take his foot out of his mouth.”
Shortly after the original post, Newsom’s office pivoted to announce a legislative package aimed at supporting immigrant communities.
During a signing event with community members, Newsom introduced multiple bills designed to protect Californians and push back against what he described as federal overreach, particularly criticizing Trump and Stephen Miller’s tactics.
One proposed bill would stop most law enforcement agencies, including federal immigration officers, from concealing their identities during civil operations.
In a press conference in Los Angeles, Newsom asserted the importance of celebrating diversity, saying, “That’s what makes California great. That’s what makes America great. It’s under attack.” He expressed pride in California’s stance against authoritarian trends and the current administration’s actions.
Neither the DHS nor Newsom’s office had responded to requests for comment as of now.
