California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday took his burgeoning comedy act to late night, joking with Jimmy Kimmel about face masks, his chosen career field and even teasing a fellow governor.
The "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" appearance coincided with the launch of California’s new COVID-19 vaccine incentive program, a statewide giveaway that could net 10 lucky Californians $1.5 million each.
"We’ve been inviting one or two vaccinated people per week to sit in our audience," Kimmel opened his monologue, pointing to a lonely man in the audience and asking his name. "My name is Gavin," a masked Gov. Newsom said to a round of applause.
Kimmel then asked "Gavin" what he does for a living.
"I hate to admit this…in politics," he said. "I’m a governor. Every state’s got one, Jimmy."
The two engaged in a canned back-and-forth, leading to one of Newsom’s best lines: "You’re asking me if being governor of California is fun. This last year, it’s been a hell of a lot of fun," he quipped.
The conversation then turned to face masks.
"June 15 we get these damn things taken off," Newsom said, alluding to California’s reopening timeline.
Just a few minutes later, Kimmel went back to Newsom after playing a clip of Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp stumbling over his words during a recent appearance on Fox News. "I’ve got to unpack that," Newsom laughed. "I’m glad I’m wearing a mask."
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