A social media post intended to portray JD Vance unfavorably has generated significant online discussion after users responded with contrasting images and commentary about both the vice president and Gov. Gavin Newsom’s (D-CA) background.
A user identified as “YungPut1n” shared side-by-side high school photographs on the platform X on Sunday, featuring Newsom and Vance.
The original post appeared designed to present Vance in an unflattering manner compared to Newsom’s image.
The photograph of Newsom depicted him seated while reading a newspaper, dressed in a button-down shirt, jacket and plaid scarf.
The image of Vance showed him in a bathroom setting with two female students, posing near men’s urinals while displaying what observers described as a casual demeanor.
The post’s author seemingly believed the comparison would reflect negatively on Vance’s character or background. However, numerous X users responded with alternative perspectives on the photographs and the politicians’ respective histories.
Several users shared post-high school images of Vance wearing his Marine Corps uniform, highlighting his military service background.
Other responses focused on contrasting the life stories and origins of both political figures.
One user said, “Gavin: 2 marriages, 1 divorce self confessed adulterer. JD: 1 stable marriage.”
“JD: Served 4 years as a Cpl. in US Marine Corps, Iraq, 2 medals. Gavin: 0 military service”
They continued, “Gavin: undergrad degree only. JD: Masters degree from Yale”
“JD: published #1 NYT Best Seller author Hillbilly Elegy, became Oscar award winning film, self made millionaire. Gavin: no talent, mooched his millions from Getty & donors.”
Another user said, “One was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, which he’s never been able to dislodge, in liberal elite Marin County, CA, and the other born into poverty to an addicted mother, worked hard, served our country and achieved the American dream.”
Vance’s background includes growing up in challenging economic circumstances before his military service and eventual political career.
Multiple users characterized Newsom’s appearance in the photograph as reflecting privilege rather than relatability to average Americans.
One response to the original post stated: “Confirmed: Gavin was a greasy-haired narcissist even back then.”
Some users noted that Vance’s photograph showed him appearing comfortable and unguarded in a typical high school social situation.
The discussion also brought attention to a January incident involving Newsom during Southern California wildfires.
During that event, a woman confronted Newsom seeking answers about wildfire response efforts as he approached a vehicle.
When questioned, Newsom indicated he was attempting to make a phone call to then-President Joe Biden.
The governor stated: “I’m sorry, There’s literally, I’ve tried five times. That’s why I’m walking around to make the call.”
Resist the Mainstream reported back in July on Newsom facing mounting criticism after a social media attack directed at Vance’s family during their recent vacation to Disneyland.
This happened after approximately 100 protesters assembled outside the park to confront the first family despite the personal nature of the trip.
Additional protests took place in Anaheim when the family toured the surrounding area during their vacation.
