Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear came to the defense of California Governor Gavin Newsom on Friday night after Bill Maher accused Newsom of taking his online trolling of former President Donald Trump too far.

Appearing on HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher, Beshear was quick to back his Democratic counterpart when Maher questioned whether Newsom’s social media strategy — often echoing Trump’s fiery tone and frequent barbs — had gone overboard.

Maher remarked that Newsom’s recent posts mocking Trump had “jumped the shark,” a phrase used to describe when something once exciting or clever becomes excessive or gimmicky. The comedian asked Beshear whether such tactics were appropriate for Democratic leaders.

Beshear, known for his measured and bipartisan approach in Kentucky, responded by praising Newsom’s leadership in California, emphasizing that the Democratic Party should remain focused on results rather than style.

“I think Governor Newsom has done a lot of good for his state,” Beshear said, sidestepping a direct critique of the trolling but underscoring unity among Democrats. “We can all have different styles, but what matters most is what we’re delivering for people.”

The exchange highlighted the ongoing debate within the Democratic Party over tone and strategy heading into the 2026 midterms. While Newsom has adopted a confrontational social media presence aimed at firing up the base and challenging Trump directly, others — like Beshear — prefer a calmer, results-oriented tone that appeals to moderates and independents.

Maher, long known for skewering both parties, pushed back, suggesting that Newsom’s antics might hurt Democrats’ credibility. But Beshear held firm, saying, “We can debate tactics, but let’s not forget we’re on the same team trying to make life better for Americans.”

The conversation drew attention online, with supporters of both governors weighing in — some praising Beshear’s diplomatic defense, others agreeing with Maher’s critique that Democrats risk alienating voters by mimicking Trump’s style.

Still, Beshear’s appearance reaffirmed his role as a unifying figure within a party often split between fiery progressives and centrist pragmatists — a stance that may prove influential as Democrats shape their 2026 messaging strategy.