Escalator Mishaps and Political Jabs: A Look at Trump's UN Address and Newsom's Response

During President Donald Trump's address at the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, 2025, he encountered significant technical difficulties, notably a malfunctioning escalator and a broken teleprompter. As Trump and First Lady Melania Trump ascended the escalator, it abruptly halted, prompting Trump to later quip, “These are the two things I got from the United Nations—a bad escalator and a bad teleprompter.” This incident occurred just before he delivered a speech that criticized the U.N. for its ineffectiveness and emphasized his administration's foreign policy achievements.

Trump mocks UN over broken escalator, teleprompter during his speech: 'Melania would have fallen'

In his speech, Trump made sweeping claims about solving global conflicts and criticized the U.N. as a body of "empty words." He described the organization as failing to fulfill its foundational mission and warned European nations against their energy and migration policies, labeling them a “double-tailed monster” that threatens their cultures. Trump also expressed a desire for a Nobel Peace Prize, asserting that his diplomatic efforts had resolved seven conflicts, including those involving Israel and Iran.

California Governor Gavin Newsom responded to the escalator incident with a post on X, stating, “I only walk up escalators because that’s what REAL MANLY MEN do.” This remark was part of a broader exchange between Newsom and Trump, reflecting their ongoing political rivalry as both prepare for potential presidential campaigns in 2028. Newsom's comments were amplified by his press office, which mocked Trump further, suggesting that the world was laughing at him.

Trump's address drew significant backlash on social media, with critics labeling it “humiliating” and “a disgrace.” Newsom summarized the speech as filled with self-aggrandizement and attacks on other nations, stating, “He told every other nation they are going to hell.” Various commentators, including Tim Miller from The Bulwark and Mehdi Hasan from Zeteo News, echoed sentiments of embarrassment for the U.S. on the global stage.

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White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Trump’s remarks, asserting that he was rightfully frustrated with perceived injustices against him. In contrast, Newsom's office emphasized the absurdity of Trump's situation, framing it as a reflection of his leadership style. The U.N. General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock noted that the teleprompters were functioning properly, countering Trump's claims.

The fallout from Trump's speech and the escalator incident highlights the increasingly polarized political landscape in the U.S. As both Trump and Newsom continue to engage in public exchanges, their interactions are likely to shape the narrative leading up to the 2028 elections. The incident also raises questions about the effectiveness of political communication in an era dominated by social media and viral content.

• “These are the two things I got from the United Nations—a bad escalator and a bad teleprompter,” — President Donald Trump

• “What a disgrace.” — Gavin Newsom on Trump's speech

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This incident serves as a reminder of how technical mishaps can become fodder for political commentary, reflecting broader tensions in American political discourse.