Toe-tal Chaos: Bill Spadea’s Feet Break the Internet
In the ever-dynamic realm of social media, few events capture the collective imagination like an unexpected post from a public figure. This morning, Bill Spadea, 101.5 radio host and Republican gubernatorial candidate, threw a curveball at his audience by sharing a photo of, get this, his feet, on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“A little snow and cold weather shouldn’t interrupt your routine for better health. Morning sun and Grounding!” said Spadea with his bare feet in the snow on a cold 8-degree morning.
In what was intended to be an innocent post of Spadea showcasing what he does for a better routine for health, it did not go the way he planned. What caught the eye of many was his right big toe, which could potentially have a fungal infection. (Not saying Bill has one as I am not a doctor, so I cannot diagnose)
While his followers are accustomed to his bold declarations, many were caught off guard by the sudden pivot to podiatric content.
Some fans found humor in the post, with one commenting, “I've told everybody you're the only candidate truly "grounded" in wanting to do the right thing for all. Thanks for the photo proof.”
Others, however, were less amused. One user said, “bro.....Your feet look like Murphy’s Smile. I can't unsee this. When you win this is definitely going to come back and haunt you hahaha.”
But it didn’t stop there, as some NJ politicos commented on the cringy post:
Nick D’Agostino, Former Sussex-Wantage School Board Member: “Serious question- what the f**k is wrong with you? Go teach a yoga class and get out of the Governor’s race.”
Tia-Lyn Ghione, Women’s Empowerment Activist: “Bill woke up and chose violence on a casual Wednesday.”
Bill Spadea’s choice to post this out-of-left-field image raises broader questions about the blurred lines between personal expression and public persona in the digital age. As a public figure with a platform that spans radio, television, and social media, Spadea’s every move is under constant observation. Yet his foray into foot photos seems to suggest he was unbothered by the risk of ridicule.
Spadea, who is struggling to fundraise for his campaign, needs to relate to as many Republican voters as possible to secure the GOP nomination for governor. This post does not help that. Here is a moral to this story for all public figures on social media, and even all political campaign staff who run social media for their candidates: If you are about to post something that you do not want your audience to know about, refrain from posting it. What you put out into the digital world is out there forever. Be mindful of what you post because you could rub somebody the wrong way.
However, it is safe to say Spadea has accomplished two things: 1. He’s got everyone talking. And 2. He needs to find a new social media director.
To learn more about my work, please visit my website.