California Governor Gavin Newsom has sharply criticized President Donald Trump over his lavish renovation of the Oval Office amid a federal government shutdown that threatens American healthcare.
In a pointed social media post, Newsom shared an image of Trump styled as Marie Antoinette, captioned: “NO HEALTH CARE FOR THE STUPID PEASANTS, BUT LOOK AT THE QUEEN’S GOLDEN OFFICE!! (GOLDEN BIDET NOT PICTURED).”
Newsom responded to a post by Dan Scavino, Trump’s deputy chief of staff and former social media director in Trump’s first term, showcasing the president’s extravagant Oval Office makeover. The renovation features gold-plated moldings and other opulent additions, drawing comparisons to the excesses of historical royalty.
Beneath the satire, Newsom makes a valid point
NO HEALTH CARE FOR THE STUPID PEASANTS, BUT LOOK AT THE QUEEN’S GOLDEN OFFICE!!
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) October 7, 2025
(GOLDEN BIDET NOT PICTURED) https://t.co/dMi9bEtqv6 pic.twitter.com/ARLzGTDntr
As Newsom notes, however, the ongoing government shutdown could affect healthcare for average Americans. The shutdown has led to furloughs and delays in critical services. A significant point of contention is the expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, which are set to end unless Congress acts.
Failure to extend these subsidies could result in a 114% increase in average premiums for low-income families, potentially leaving 4.2 million Americans without insurance. Despite these pressing issues, President Trump has signaled openness to negotiating a deal with Democrats to preserve the ACA subsidies, but only if they agree to end the government shutdown.
From the Democratic perspective, reopening the government without protecting these subsidies would sacrifice the long-term health and financial security of millions of Americans for the sake of a short-term political fix. As it stands, the political deadlock has led to widespread frustration. Senate Democrats have blocked Republican attempts to pass a stopgap funding bill, citing the failure to extend ACA subsidies as a primary reason
Public reaction to Newsom’s post has been swift. One commenter quipped, “Healthcare budget: tight. Queen’s office: solid gold (bidet not included). Priorities so royal, even the golden toilet paper gets a security detail!” Another added, “Let them eat McDonald’s apple pies.” A third remarked, “Unfortunately the people you’re trolling likely have no idea which historical figure you are referencing 
but it’s spot on!!!”
