California gubernatorial candidate Stephen Cloobeck is leveraging Donald Trump’s own rhetoric in a provocative campaign ad aimed at the president’s associations with convicted sex offenders Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. As Cloobeck seeks to succeed term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom in the 2026 election, he is rolling out a significant online and television advertising campaign that suggests “Trump is for they/them,” a reference to his controversial connections, while positioning himself as a candidate “working for you.”
This tagline nods to Trump’s earlier “Kamala is for they/them” commentary, directed at Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 election. Cloobeck’s strategy seems to pull from the playful yet serious tone of modern political discourse, aiming to spotlight issues that resonate with progressive voters, particularly concerning criminal justice and social equity.
Cloobeck’s approach not only draws attention to Trump’s past but also aligns him with the principles of inclusivity and protection for vulnerable communities, contrasting the two candidates’ profiles leading up to the gubernatorial race. This campaign may potentially engage a segment of voters who are looking for a candidate that prioritizes social justice and accountability in leadership.
As political dynamics evolve, candidates like Cloobeck are finding innovative ways to resonate with voters while holding their opponents accountable. This could foster a renewed dialogue on critical issues as the election approaches.