Imagine a world where political allegiance takes a backseat to a polished jawline. That's the bizarre reality unfolding as California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a frequent target of conservative criticism, finds himself lauded by fringe right-wing voices—not for his policies, but for his appearance.
In an unexpected twist, far-right commentators like Nick Fuentes and streamer Clavicular have turned their focus from policy debates to superficial charm, praising Newsom's looks while sharply criticizing Vice President JD Vance, the New York Post reported.
This peculiar narrative began when Fuentes, known for his controversial online presence and extreme views, took to X on a recent Sunday to express an unusual preference.
In a post dripping with superficiality, Fuentes declared, "I would vote for [Gavin Newsom] 100x" over Vance, citing Newsom's attractiveness as the sole reason, while dismissing Vance in harsh terms (X).
Let's unpack that: a self-described opponent of progressive agendas like Newsom's is ready to throw support behind him based on nothing more than a headshot. It’s a stark reminder of how shallow discourse can erode substantive political critique.
Fuentes doubled down with rhetoric about "physiognomy," the outdated notion that looks reflect character, proclaiming a belief in "beauty and aesthetics" above all else. This isn’t conservatism; it’s a beauty pageant with dangerous undertones.
Not to be outdone, Clavicular, a streamer embroiled in his own controversies including a ban from Kick after a troubling incident, echoed Fuentes’s odd fixation on appearances.
In a conversation with right-wing podcaster Michael Knowles, Clavicular stated, "JD Vance is subhuman and Gavin Newsom mogs," using Gen Z slang to suggest Newsom overshadows Vance in looks. Such language reduces public figures to mere objects of vanity, sidelining the real issues at stake.
Clavicular even admitted he’d back a "6 foot 3 Chad" like Newsom over Vance, whom he criticized for his physique. It’s a sad commentary when policy debates are swapped for locker-room jabs.
Michael Knowles, a familiar voice in conservative circles, didn’t shy away from slamming Newsom’s governance, calling him the "worst governor in the country" and a host of other unflattering titles.
Yet, even Knowles couldn’t resist conceding that Newsom has a certain appeal, likening him to the infamous Patrick Bateman from "American Psycho." It’s a begrudging nod that underscores how even fierce critics can’t ignore the surface-level allure.
Still, Knowles’s critique of Newsom’s leadership as deeply flawed stands as a necessary counterpoint to this odd obsession with aesthetics over substance.
Neither Newsom’s nor Vance’s offices have weighed in on these peculiar remarks, leaving the public to grapple with this strange detour from policy discussion.
It’s telling that such frivolous commentary hasn’t warranted a response, perhaps signaling that both leaders recognize the irrelevance of this sideshow. After all, governing a state or serving a nation isn’t a modeling gig.
This episode, while amusing on the surface, highlights a troubling trend where fringe voices prioritize triviality over the pressing challenges facing our country. Conservatism should stand for values and accountability, not who looks better on camera. Let’s hope this is a fleeting distraction and not a sign of deeper decline in political discourse.
