California Governor Gavin Newsom’s lighthearted quip about re-evaluating his guest list in response to Patrick Bateman comparisons exposes the elite vanity conservatives have long criticized in Democrat leaders.
Story Highlights
- ABC’s Jonathan Karl confronts Newsom on October 31, 2025, about viral memes likening him to the psychopathic character from *American Psycho*.
- Newsom jokes about his “Newscum” nickname and friend comparisons, turning the moment into a conservative “self-own” viral clip.
- Meme roots in Newsom’s polished image and past scandals like the French Laundry hypocrisy, fueling perceptions of elitism.
- Dave Rubin on The Rubin Report amplifies the exchange, calling out Newsom’s “soulless” vibe amid 2028 presidential speculation.
The Viral ABC Confrontation
Jonathan Karl, ABC News chief Washington correspondent, pressed California Governor Gavin Newsom on October 31, 2025, about online comparisons to Patrick Bateman, the obsessive yuppie murderer from *American Psycho*. Karl cited even Newsom’s friends and a comedian labeling him a “literal comic book villain” with Bateman vibes, implying dark deeds. Newsom responded with humor, embracing his “Newscum” nickname and quipping he would “re-evaluate my guest list.” This exchange elevated an internet meme to national TV, highlighting the rough edges of politics.
Roots of the Bateman Meme
Newsom’s groomed suits, intense demeanor, and sharp public style mirror Bateman’s vanity from Bret Easton Ellis’s 1991 novel and 2000 film. The comparison surged during his governorship amid COVID hypocrisy, like the 2020 French Laundry scandal where he dined elite while imposing lockdowns on Californians. AI images amplified the meme, tying into “Newscum” jabs and Napa elitism critiques. Conservatives see this as emblematic of disconnected Democrat leaders prioritizing image over common-sense governance.
Conservative Reaction and Dave Rubin’s Take
Dave Rubin dissected the clip same-day on The Rubin Report, praising Karl’s straight-faced delivery and Newsom’s jaw-dropping reaction as a viral self-own. Rubin called Newsom “entertaining” and preferable to peers like Harris or AOC for a beer, yet a “liar with no soul.” This reflects conservative frustration with slick politicians evading accountability. Rubin’s 1M+ subscribers boosted discourse, positioning Newsom’s humor as deflection amid national ambitions.
Implications for Newsom’s 2028 Ambitions
Post-2021 recall win and Biden surrogate role elevated Newsom as a top 2028 Democrat contender after 2024 losses. Short-term, his quip may humanize him; long-term, the “psycho” caricature could haunt his run if memes persist. Online communities polarize: conservatives revel, progressives dismiss. Amid endless wars draining resources under Trump and high energy costs, Americans crave leaders focused on borders, inflation, and family values—not vanity theatrics from California elites.
Hot Takes: Newsom Compares Himself to Patrick Bateman, and It's the Biggest Self-Ownhttps://t.co/2Wwmv9lmBz
— RedState (@RedState) March 24, 2026
Broader Political Context
The interview aired during Democrat soul-searching, with Newsom touting presidential timber. Conservative outlets framed it as exposing an “evil” vibe, underscoring Dem bench weaknesses. No formal rebuttals followed; the meme lingers online without campaign escalation. In 2026, as MAGA supporters question foreign entanglements and unkept promises on avoiding new wars, such distractions highlight why voters demand America First policies over Hollywood-style politician antics.
