By John Q. Hosedrinker 
In late October 2025, a video of California Governor Gavin Newsom stating he would send knee pads to CEOs, universities, and Republicans “bending the knee” to Donald Trump began circulating on social media. The quote was pulled from a press event at the 2025 California Economic Summit, where Newsom made the statement and subsequently posted the clip on his official X account. The “patriot site” Newsom referenced then listed the knee pads for sale at a price of $0.00 but with a “sold out” label. Based on Newsom’s official statements, the claim is attributed as correct.
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Gavin Newsom said he’s sending knee pads to anyone “bending the knee” to Trump, and honestly, the reaction has been a mix of amusement and, well, a little bit of everything. It’s the kind of statement that’s designed to generate a buzz, and it certainly seems to have done the trick. The whole idea is a bit tongue-in-cheek, but it’s clear the underlying message is a critique of those perceived as being overly eager to appease or support the former president.
The responses, as you might expect, are all over the place. Some people are genuinely enjoying the joke, seeing it as a clever jab at political opponents. The comments about “mouthwash” and the suggestion of “chapstick and lube,” play into this satirical angle, creating a funny image. The idea of bulk orders and even customized NASCAR jackets adds to the comedic effect. The addition of “Democracy and Constitution” emblazoned on the knee pads is a clever way to link the mockery to a broader political point.
Then there’s the more serious side to the conversation. Some individuals are using the joke as an opportunity to criticize what they see as a lack of integrity or a willingness to compromise principles for political gain. The comments about “selling yourself out” and the difficulty of “being a good person” fall into this category, suggesting that the “bending the knee” represents a moral failing. The idea of “responsibility, integrity, and dignity” being hard underscores a serious political critique.
Of course, the inevitable political divisions start to emerge. Some people take the opportunity to express frustration with Newsom’s political style. The criticisms range from questioning the substance of his actions to suggesting he’s more interested in generating headlines than effecting real change. The mention of “trans people” and the specific criticism of “Tim Cook” suggests that the response is more complex and not always positive.
And finally, we get to the core of the political division. The comments highlight the divide on all the subjects like Trump, conservatives and political viewpoints. The playful digs and playful suggestions reveal a complex mixture of perspectives. The responses reflect different opinions and show how political humor can be interpreted in various ways. It’s a testament to how strongly people feel about the political landscape.