California Gov. Gavin Newsom tried to score political points online—but instead became the internet’s newest punchline after a bizarre photo posted by his own press office backfired spectacularly.
The trouble started when video from Newsom’s appearance at The New York Times DealBook Summit showed him sitting in an unusually tight, awkward pose. Social media users immediately noticed, launching a wave of jokes about the governor’s posture and demeanor.
One viewer wrote, “I have never seen a man crush his legs together harder than this dude.”
The clip spread quickly, fueling fresh criticism of Newsom’s public image and leadership style.
In an attempt to push back, Newsom’s staff posted an exaggerated, contorted photo of the governor on social media—along with the caption, “Democracy requires flexibility.”
LOOK:
Democracy requires flexibility https://t.co/gjwAx1ixGv pic.twitter.com/xiushvIksV
— Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) December 6, 2025
But instead of defending him, the post ignited an even bigger storm.
Users questioned whether his team understood how ridiculous the photo looked.
“They… posted this?” one man asked.
Another added, “Gavin illustrating his taxation policy on your average California residence.”
A third chimed in, “When they say the Left can’t meme, they’re really not kidding.”
The embarrassing moment only reinforced what many conservative viewers already believe: Newsom’s political instincts often miss the mark, especially when he tries to troll Republicans or posture against President Trump.
Even the governor appeared stunned by the backlash, responding on X with a simple, “WOW!”
For critics, the viral moment served as yet another reminder of the growing disconnect between Democrat leadership in California and the everyday Americans who are tired of out-of-touch theatrics, rising taxes, and political posturing.
And once again, when Newsom tried to target Trump supporters, the blowback ended up landing squarely on him.
