Newsom mocks Trump’s weight after Hegseth insults ‘fat’ leaders

Key Takeaways:

• Gavin Newsom mocked Donald Trump’s weight.
• Newsom specifically called for Trump to leave office.
• Pete Hegseth criticized “fat” U.S. military leaders.
• The conversation sparked broader debate on leadership standards.
• The story originally appeared in the New York Daily News.

The Background

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently made headlines by insisting that there is “no place” for “fat” U.S. military leaders. His remarks triggered a wave of responses both inside and outside Washington, debate swirling around fitness, leadership standards, and political correctness.

Newsom’s Response

California Governor Gavin Newsom seized on Hegseth’s statement to highlight President Donald Trump’s physical appearance. In a pointed statement, Newsom mocked Trump’s weight, effectively tying the “fat leaders” conversation to the White House.

The Call for Trump’s Departure

Beyond merely ridiculing the President’s physique, Newsom went on to say that Trump should depart from office altogether. This escalated the criticism from talk of weight issues into a direct call for political change.

Political and Public Response

While the wider public reaction continues to develop, what is clear is that Hegseth’s comment about “fat” military leaders touched a nerve. Newsom’s response has thrown new fuel onto the ongoing political climate, spotlighting questions about the personal health of leaders and the broader standards Americans expect from those holding influential positions.