A fundraising email for California gubernatorial hopeful Katie Porter has sparked controversy due to its vulgar message directed at former President Donald Trump. The timing of the email, which followed a gunman’s attempt to target Trump at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, has drawn particular criticism.
The email, sent with the provocative subject line “F—k Trump,” referenced comments Porter made at the California Democratic Party Convention in February. During the event, the former congresswoman was seen holding a sign that displayed the same offensive two-word phrase.
In the email, Porter introduced herself by saying, “I’m Katie Porter. Some of you know me as the whiteboard lady who held CEOs and billionaires accountable in Congress.” The message, distributed by the progressive activist group LeftNet, included a link encouraging recipients to contribute to Porter’s campaign.
The email continued with Porter rallying supporters by stating, “So today, I want to start with one simple, powerful message we all agree on. Say it with me. Ready, 1 … 2 … 3 … F—k Trump.
“Yeah, that’s right, F—k Trump. Together, we’re going to kick Trump’s a— in November and stop him in his tracks.”
As one of several Democrats vying for the governorship of California, Porter has faced backlash for the email, which was accused of being sent shortly after the attempted attack on Trump at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
Conservative political commentator Bethany Mandel shot back after seeing the email.
“Imagine Barack Obama surviving three assassination attempts and 18 hours later, a Republican sent a fundraising email like this,” she wrote on X.
“Appalling. Utterly appalling,” one commenter replied.
“Completely deranged,” another added.
Porter’s campaign did not respond to a request for comment from The California Post.
Porter is best known for delivering intense grillings at congressional hearings. In the governor’s race, she has attempted to embrace a reputation of being the toughest fighter against Trump, including through the use of profane language.
She has used the “F—k Trump” messaging throughout her campaign, including earlier this month, when one individual complained that her campaign kept texting the insult to potential supporters.
“Stop doing stuff for attention, stop making your campaign all about swearing at Trump,” the critic wrote. “I want to know what a candidate will do for California.”
Porter was considered one of three Democratic frontrunners in the race but has slipped following a surge by Xavier Becerra, after disgraced Congressman Eric Swalwell suspended his campaign amid sexual assault allegations.
