Washington, D.C. – In a stunning statement from the White House, President Donald Trump said he would impose “severe punishment” on individuals accused of spreading false information about his health on social media.
Trump not only issued a general warning, but also took aim at California Governor Gavin Newsom – one of his biggest political rivals.
“This is not a joke. Fake news about my health is being spread to destroy me. And Gavin Newsom – he must be held accountable. He will face the consequences,” Trump said in a tense tone, in front of dozens of reporters.
DIRECT POLITICAL CONFRONTATION
The statement immediately ignited a new political crisis. Newsom – who has repeatedly criticized Trump and is considered a shining star in the Democratic ranks – was now called out by name by the President in an unprecedented incident.
On social media, the hashtag #TrumpVsNewsom went viral, attracting millions of comments and dividing public opinion:
Trump supporters praised his “strong hand,” seeing it as a necessary step to prevent misinformation.
Detractors warned that it was a “political threat,” which could turn into an attack on free speech.
NEWSOM’S RESPONSE
The California Governor’s office immediately issued a statement in response, calling Trump’s accusations “absurd and dangerous.”
A Newsom adviser told ABC News:
“The president cannot use his power to silence dissenters. This is a retaliatory act.”
Democratic lawmakers also spoke up to defend Newsom, while some Trump allies asserted that the president “is fully justified” in responding.
NEW CRISIS RISK
Many experts say Trump’s direct targeting of a state governor could spark an unprecedented confrontation in US politics.
A political analyst commented:
“Trump is using health rumors as a weapon to consolidate power and destroy opponents. This is a risky move, but it also shows his ambition to control the entire political narrative.”
THE HANGING QUESTION
Will Trump actually turn his threats into action against Gavin Newsom?
How will Democrats react if a powerful governor is targeted directly from the White House?
And is this a sign of a broader free speech and political crisis in the coming months?
ABC News said: The situation is complicated and will continue to update.
