Gavin Newsom’s Swipe at Trump Turns Into Surprise Blow for Pete Hegseth

Pete Hegseth attempted to assert authority regarding military fitness, but his comments sparked significant backlash. His statement that “overweight troops” and “overweight generals” are unwelcome in military ranks ignited a storm online, quickly pointing fingers at Donald Trump’s physique.The online community swiftly reacted with memes critiquing Trump’s weight, and California Governor Gavin Newsom took a potent jab, leaving the president feeling embarrassed. Trump eventually responded to Newsom's taunting, defending his press secretary, but critics argue that he struggles to handle scrutiny directed at him.Hegseth is advocating for stricter fitness mandates across all military branches. During a September 30 address at the Marine Corps Museum, he emphasized the need for all personnel to meet height and weight criteria and participate in biannual physical testing. Expressing frustration at seeing “overweight troops” in formations, he stated that maintaining high physical standards is essential. However, his own fitness struggles drew laughter and shifted attention back to Trump, further fueling the ridicule.

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