California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s press office sparked a firestorm over the weekend after posting a cryptic remark about Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem that critics say crossed the line into a potential threat.
On Saturday, the official Newsom Press Office account wrote on X:
“Kristi Noem is going to have a bad day today. You’re welcome, America.”
The comment immediately drew backlash from conservatives and was referred to the U.S. Secret Service for a threat assessment.
Bill Essayli, acting U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, announced he had alerted federal authorities.
“There is zero tolerance for threats — direct or implied — against government officials. I’ve referred this matter to the Secret Service and requested a full threat assessment.”
Tricia McLaughlin, DHS assistant secretary for public affairs, called the post “ugly” and accused Newsom’s staff of cowardice.
“Your keyboard warrior team may hide behind their laptops and spew this kind of vitriol but you would never have the guts to say this to her face.”
California Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez (R) also condemned the remark, warning that such rhetoric fuels political violence.
“Our governor can’t keep his foot out of his mouth,” Sanchez told Fox News Digital.
Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed the agency had received the referral, stressing that all potential threats — regardless of source — must be investigated, especially “in a politically charged climate.”
Hours later, Newsom’s press office clarified that the “bad day” comment referred to a legislative package the governor unveiled that same day. The measures, aimed at shielding immigrant communities, were framed as a direct pushback against former President Donald Trump and his former adviser Stephen Miller.
One of the bills prohibits most law enforcement, including federal immigration agents, from concealing their faces while performing official duties. At a Los Angeles press event, Newsom portrayed the legislation as a stand against “authoritarian tendencies” from Washington.
“We celebrate diversity. It’s what makes California great. It’s what makes America great. It is under assault,” Newsom declared.
Neither DHS nor Newsom’s office responded to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
