Gavin Newsom’s attempt to deliver a heartwarming Thanksgiving message turned into a brutal reminder of his failures as California’s governor. Newsom, a likely contender for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, shared a video expressing gratitude for their family, the state of California, and its residents. But the response on social media was anything but warm.
The backlash stemmed not just from the platitudes in their message but from the lavish setting in which it was delivered: their newly purchased $9.1 million mansion in Marin County. The posh Kentfield estate boasts six bedrooms, five and a half bathrooms, sprawling views of Mount Tamalpais, and floor-to-ceiling windows—luxuries far removed from the struggles of many Californians.
Happy Thanksgiving, California! 🦃🍁
This Thanksgiving, we give thanks to Californians across the state who make us strong, resilient, and united.
Wishing everyone a joyful holiday filled with love, good food, and connection. pic.twitter.com/c8DAOugfWl
— Governor Newsom (@CAgovernor) November 28, 2024
Newsom’s message of gratitude came off as tone-deaf to residents grappling with the harsh realities of life under his leadership. California has become synonymous with skyrocketing crime, homelessness, and an exodus of residents seeking relief from the state’s high taxes and worsening quality of life. Meanwhile, Newsom’s policies, including sanctuary state measures and a relaxed approach to illegal immigration, have compounded the state’s challenges.
“Thanksgiving is about gratitude, it’s about appreciating what you have and who you’re with,” Siebel Newsom began, before her husband chimed in to express pride in California and its values. For many, these sentiments rang hollow. Critics noted the irony of Newsom celebrating a state he has overseen into crisis while cozying up in a hidden mansion far removed from the struggles of his constituents.
Social media users on X wasted no time calling out the hypocrisy. Many reminded Newsom of his disastrous handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, including draconian lockdowns that crippled small businesses while he dined maskless at the exclusive French Laundry restaurant. Others highlighted the ongoing homelessness crisis and criticized him for showcasing his multimillion-dollar home while Californians live in tents on city streets.
While Newsom likely hoped the message would humanize him ahead of a presumed presidential bid, it served as yet another reminder of how out of touch he is with ordinary Californians. Instead of bridging the gap between himself and his constituents, the Thanksgiving message widened it—turning gratitude into fodder for outrage.
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