Vogue Publishes Glowing Profile of California Governor Gavin Newsom

The magazine's fawning coverage raises questions about media bias and the role of fashion publications in political coverage.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Vogue magazine has published a profile of California Governor Gavin Newsom that has been criticized as overly flattering and biased. The article, written by Maya Singer with photos by Annie Leibovitz, portrays Newsom as a charismatic, Kennedy-esque figure who is standing up to President Donald Trump. The piece reads more like an advertisement for Newsom's upcoming memoir than objective journalism, leading to accusations of media bias.

Why it matters

The Vogue profile of Newsom is seen as emblematic of a broader trend of media institutions, even traditionally non-political ones like fashion magazines, exhibiting clear political leanings in their coverage. This raises concerns about the role of the media in shaping public perceptions of political figures, especially those who may be positioning themselves for higher office.

The details

The Vogue article begins by describing Newsom as "embarrassingly handsome" and "Kennedy-esque" as he delivers a State of the State address. It goes on to praise his "stunning wife and four adorable kids" and his "executive strut of a self-made millionaire." The piece is heavily focused on Newsom's perceived ability to stand up to President Trump, with the author thrilling at the thought of Newsom "aiming his finger at the president's chest." Overall, the profile reads more like an advertisement for Newsom's upcoming memoir than objective journalism.

  • The Vogue profile of Gavin Newsom was published on February 6, 2026.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Democratic Governor of California who is seen as a potential 2028 presidential candidate.

Maya Singer

The Vogue writer who authored the profile of Gavin Newsom.

Annie Leibovitz

The renowned celebrity photographer who took the photos for the Vogue profile.

Donald Trump

The former Republican President of the United States who is frequently referenced in the Vogue profile as a foil to Newsom.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Let's get this out of the way. He is embarrassingly handsome, his hair seasoned with silver, at ease with his own eminence...”

— Maya Singer, Vogue Writer (Vogue)

“There's a photo that does the online rounds now and then, a shot of the governor on the tarmac at LAX, aiming his finger at the president's chest. Bouncer body language, like 'Hey buddy, not so fast.' It has seemed at times, this past year, that the only thing standing athwart Donald Trump's will to power is Gavin Newsom.”

— Maya Singer, Vogue Writer (Vogue)

What’s next

The Vogue profile of Gavin Newsom is likely to fuel further debate about media bias and the role of fashion and cultural publications in political coverage. As Newsom is seen as a potential 2028 presidential candidate, this profile will likely be scrutinized and analyzed in the context of his future political ambitions.

The takeaway

The Vogue profile of Gavin Newsom is a prime example of the blurring lines between journalism and political advocacy, raising concerns about the objectivity and independence of the media. This type of fawning coverage, especially in a non-political publication, underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in the media industry.