Newsom Sparks Controversy with 'Apartheid' Label for Israel

February 23 – March 19, 2026

Where Things Stand

Governor Gavin Newsom is facing a backlash after calling Israel an "apartheid" state and suggesting the U.S. should reconsider its military aid. Republicans argue these comments prove he is a "radical" unfit for the presidency, while Donald Trump has used the controversy to mock Newsom's dyslexia. This fight centers on the future of the U.S.-Israel alliance and the billions of dollars in weapons sent to the region.

Key Statements

SSen. Lindsey Graham

“Anyone who claims that Israel is an apartheid state has drunk the Far Left Kool-Aid... This is slander of the Jewish people.”

This post directly shows the Republican strategy of using Newsom's comments to disqualify him from national office.

SSen. Rick Scott

“There is no courage behind @CAGovernor Newsom’s foolish attacks against Israel. He is a coward so desperate for acceptance that he’ll say anything to appease the pro-Hamas, antisemitic radicals.”

This post illustrates the intensity of the political backlash and the framing of Newsom as catering to radicals.