Is authenticity dead in politics, or just on a brief hiatus? JD Vance certainly thinks so, slamming Gavin Newsom for what he calls a “cheap imitation” of Trump’s unique social media style. Vance argues politicians should be themselves, not carbon copies. But is mimicry a smart strategy for political gain? What do you think?
Vice President JD Vance recently launched a scathing critique against California Governor Gavin Newsom, accusing him of adopting a “cheap imitation” of former President Donald Trump’s distinctive social media style and urging a return to political authenticity. This commentary highlights a growing debate within US politics regarding genuine representation versus strategic mimicry.
During an interview with Fox News host Will Cain, Vance articulated his view that Governor Gavin Newsom’s attempts to emulate former President Donald Trump were fundamentally misguided. He asserted that one “can’t mimic the master” and that politicians should instead embrace their true selves, suggesting this approach would resonate more genuinely with the electorate than any superficial mimicry, emphasizing the importance of political authenticity.
These criticisms from Vance directly followed a series of viral social media posts by Governor Newsom in August, which observers widely noted for their striking resemblance to Donald Trump’s characteristic online communication. Newsom’s posts conspicuously featured all-caps, employed pejorative nicknames for political adversaries, and concluded with his initials, mirroring Trump’s signature style.
One particular post exemplified this strategy, reading: “WOW! TOMORROW HISTORY WILL BE MADE. KaroLYIN LEAVITT WILL HAVE NO ANSWERS FOR THE SUPPOSED “FAKE MEDIA” ABOUT CALIFORNIA’S BEAUTIFUL MAPS. PEOPLE ARE SAYING THEY ARE THE GREATEST MAPS EVER CREATED — EVEN BETTER THAN CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS’. DONALD “THE FAILURE” TRUMP BE WARNED, TOMORROW MAY BE THE WORST DAY OF YOUR LIFE. ALL BECAUSE YOU “MISSED THE DEADLINE.” LIBERATION DAY FOR AMERICA!!! — GCN.” This post clearly highlighted the extent of the social media politics mimicry.
Cain pointed out that Newsom’s unconventional strategy might be achieving its intended effect, noting a rise in his polling numbers since he began adopting the Trump-like persona on social media. However, JD Vance quickly dismissed this, reiterating his stance that such an approach is the antithesis of authenticity, arguing that Newsom was attempting to be a “fake carbon copy” rather than embracing his own identity.
Beyond the critique of Newsom, JD Vance also commented on New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. While admitting he didn’t know Mamdani personally, Vance expressed a sentiment that individuals who have enjoyed a “very good life in this country” should occasionally display gratitude instead of consistently focusing on criticisms or perceived problems within the United States.
Vance further contrasted these observations with what he considers to be former President Donald Trump’s lasting influence on the American political landscape. He specifically advised Democrats to learn from Trump’s ability to “laugh at themselves a little bit,” suggesting that a less serious, more humorous approach to the political process could be beneficial, rather than taking offense at every turn in US politics.
Concluding his reflections, JD Vance briefly touched upon his late grandmother, affectionately known as “Mamaw,” noting that she would likely find herself profoundly out of step with the current ideological direction and demeanor of today’s Democratic Party, emphasizing a perceived shift in political discourse and values.
