California Governor Gavin Newsom has effectively “banned” Kid Rock from entering the state following the rapper’s appearance in a controversial workout video with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The move, delivered via Newsom’s official social media account, highlights the increasingly charged political landscape intersecting with celebrity culture.
“I HAVE SEEN ENOUGH. AS GOVERNOR OF THE FREE WORLD, I, GAVIN C. NEWSOM, AM OFFICIALLY BANNING ‘KID ROCK’ FROM CALIFORNIA,” Newsom posted. “HIS SHIRTLESS VIDEO WITH ‘SECRETARY BRAINWORM’ WAS INAPPROPRIATE, CREEPY, AND Extremely LOW ENERGY. NOT WHAT YOU Seek AROUND OUR CHILDREN! Likewise, SOME OF THE WEAKEST PUSHUPS EVER WITNESSED. CALIFORNIA ONLY ALLOWS WINNERS!”
The video, shared by Kennedy on Tuesday, depicts the pair performing a “rock out workout” set to Kid Rock’s 1999 hit “Bawitdaba.” It quickly went viral, drawing widespread criticism for its unusual content.
The clip features both men stripping down, utilizing gym equipment, and even taking an ice bath while wearing jeans. At one point, Kennedy is seen cycling in a sauna while Kid Rock attempts push-ups behind him. The pair also shared a glass of milk while relaxing in a pool.
The bizarre workout session didn’t escape the notice of cable news, with hosts on The Five expressing their discomfort. Comedian Stephen Colbert also weighed in, calling it “senior softcore” and questioning the video’s overall message.
This isn’t the first time Newsom has publicly sparred with Kid Rock. In August, the governor’s press account shared an image of the musician as Uncle Sam with the caption “Kid Rock wants you to support Gavin Newsom,” seemingly mocking attempts to use celebrity endorsements without permission. Kid Rock responded with a pointed message of his own.
The incident comes as Kid Rock has faced other recent setbacks, including the failure of his Turning Point USA “All-American Halftime Show” and the cancellation of a music festival date due to artist withdrawals.
Newsom, who recently attended the Munich Security Conference and spoke about the temporary nature of the Trump presidency, is also frequently discussed as a potential Democratic candidate for the 2028 presidential race.
