California Governor's Spokesman Responds With F-Bomb to Media Inquiry

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California Governor Gavin Newsom's spokesman, Izzy Gardon, responded to a media inquiry with the phrase "Respectfully, f--k off," summing up the current race to the bottom of American politics. Newsom himself has also unleashed profane attacks, including on Fox News host Sean Hannity. This trend of using foul language is not limited to Democrats, but the party appears to have made profanity a signature element in their campaigns as a way to connect with younger voters and convey a sense of radical chic.

Why it matters

The use of profanity by political leaders has become increasingly common, with some Democrats using it as a way to establish their bona fides with the political base and convey a sense of anger and radicalism. This trend reflects a broader devolution of American politics, where politicians are willing to disregard social conventions and norms in pursuit of power.

The details

In response to a media inquiry about Newsom's controversial comments in Atlanta, where he claimed he had a low SAT score and could not read speeches, Gardon responded with the profane phrase. Newsom himself has also engaged in similar behavior, unleashing a profane attack on Fox News host Sean Hannity after Hannity criticized Newsom's comments in Atlanta.

• On February 26, 2026, Newsom's spokesman Izzy Gardon responded with an F-bomb to a media inquiry about Newsom's comments.
• In recent weeks, Newsom has also unleashed profane attacks, including on Fox News host Sean Hannity.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The use of profanity by political leaders is likely to continue as a way to connect with certain voters and convey a sense of anger, though it remains to be seen whether this strategy will be successful in the long run.