Michele Bachmann says Trump is handsome, in incredible shape, and beats Gavin Newsom

Michele Bachmann praised Trump’s age-defying energy and fitness, highlighting his appeal compared to younger Democratic rivals
PUBLISHED FEB 6, 2026
Michele Bachmann’s praise came as Trump remained a central figure in Republican politics ahead of 2026 (Screengrab/Youtube/Right Wing Watch, Getty Images)
Michele Bachmann’s praise came as Trump remained a central figure in Republican politics ahead of 2026 (Screengrab/Youtube/Right Wing Watch, Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC: Former Minnesota congresswoman Michele Bachmann expressed strong admiration for President Donald Trump's appearance and fitness during a recent interview, claiming he is “absolutely handsome” and in “incredible shape.”

Bachmann, who ran for president in 2012, made the remarks while responding to commentary comparing Trump to California Governor Gavin Newsom, who some Democrats praise for his on-camera appeal.

Michele Bachmann gushes over Trump’s looks

U.S. President Donald Trump listens during a Cabinet meeting at the White House on February 26, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump is holding the first Cabinet meeting of his second term, joined by Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
Trump listened during a Cabinet meeting at the White House in Washington, DC (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

“They see Gavin Newsom as this big beauty. But I would say, I'd put up Donald Trump against him any day,” Bachmann said.

Despite Trump being in his late 70s, Bachmann argued he compares favorably with younger politicians. “I mean here you have Donald Trump who's in his very late seventies. The guy is absolutely handsome, incredible shape,” she added

First lady Melania Trump looks on during the annual White House Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House on April 21, 2025, in Washington, DC (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
First Lady Melania Trump attended the annual White House Egg Roll on the South Lawn (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Bachmann also praised Trump’s wife, First Lady Melania Trump, calling her “the most beautiful woman in the world” while continuing her contrast with Newsom. “He's married to the most beautiful woman in the world. And I'd put Donald Trump up against Gavin Newsom any day of the week. And Gavin wouldn't even be in the same league as Donald Trump. So, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”

California Governor Gavin Newsom looks on before speaking at East Los Angeles College on February 26, 2025 in Monterey Park, California. Newsom announced the California Jobs First Economic Blueprint along with additional funding for Los Angeles communities impacted by wildfires today. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)
California Governor Gavin Newsom addressed students at East Los Angeles College in Monterey Park, California (Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Michele Bachmann’s comments echo Trump-era messaging

Bachmann’s remarks follow a pattern common among Trump allies, who emphasize the former president’s energy, physical fitness, and charisma despite his age. Age and fitness remain recurring topics in political debates, but Trump’s supporters often use them to reinforce his image as a strong, capable leader.

Her comments also coincide with Trump’s continued influence heading into the 2026 midterm elections, with Republican figures framing him as a dominant force in the party and a clear contrast to leading Democrats.

The interview clip gained attention online for its personal tone, as Bachmann highlighted not just Trump’s public persona but his physical appearance and family life. Bachmann has maintained a visible presence in conservative media, continuing to support Trump’s policies and political agenda.

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