In a bizarre political twist, California's Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom has found unexpected admirers in an unlikely quarter: the far-right fringe. According to a New York Post report, several controversial figures on the extreme right are setting aside deep ideological differences to praise Newsom, not for his policies, but for his physical appearance and sharp jawline.
The Unlikely Admirers and Their Controversial Praise
The report highlights specific instances where Governor Newsom's looks drew direct compliments. Far-right podcaster Nick Fuentes, a 27-year-old described as a virulent antisemite, said he would vote for Newsom "100x" in a hypothetical matchup with Vice Presidential candidate JD Vance. His reason was purely aesthetic, calling Newsom "handsome" while labeling Vance a "fat subhuman." Fuentes, who has previously praised Hitler and made derogatory remarks about Second Lady Usha Vance's Indian American heritage, declared on social media, "Physiognomy is real. I only believe in beauty and aesthetics!!"
This sentiment was echoed by another controversial online figure, streamer Clavicular, whose real name is Braden Peters. Clavicular, known for "looksmaxxing" content and banned from the Kick platform after an incident involving a Cybertruck, stated in an interview with right-wing podcaster Michael Knowles that "JD Vance is subhuman and Gavin Newsom mogs." The term "mogs" is Gen Z slang for dominating or outshining someone visually. He further stated he would vote for the "6 foot 3 Chad" Newsom over an "obese" Vance.
Aesthetic Appeal in the Midst of Political Vitriol
Interestingly, the praise for Newsom's appearance exists alongside severe political criticism from the same circles. Michael Knowles, the podcaster who interviewed Clavicular, called Newsom the "worst governor in the country," describing him as a "derelict liar, and degenerate." However, even Knowles conceded, "But he is good looking. He kind of looks like Patrick Bateman," referencing the iconic, psychopathic protagonist from American Psycho.
This creates a strange dichotomy where deep-seated ideological hatred is momentarily paused for an appreciation of physical aesthetics. The report suggests this phenomenon points to a peculiar undercurrent in the culture wars of 2025, where traditional political allegiance is being challenged, or at least commented upon, through the lens of looks and perceived social status.
What This Bizarre Cross-Over Signifies
This incident, while seemingly superficial, highlights several key aspects of modern political discourse, especially within online fringe communities:
- The rise of aesthetics-driven commentary: Figures like Fuentes and Clavicular are part of online subcultures that often prioritize physical appearance and "hierarchy" based on looks, a concept sometimes referred to as "looksmaxxing."
- The separation of persona from policy: It demonstrates a capacity, however ironic, to separate a personal aesthetic judgment from a political one, though both are often expressed in vitriolic terms.
- The unpredictable nature of online politics: The story underscores how political narratives can take unexpected turns in the digital age, where viral moments and memes can sometimes overshadow policy debates.
Ultimately, while Governor Newsom is unlikely to seek or welcome this particular demographic of support, the episode serves as a strange footnote in the ongoing political theater, suggesting that in the chaotic arena of online discourse, even a well-defined jawline can become a point of contentious discussion.
