California Governor Claims White House Interference at Davos Forum
California Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly stated that he was denied entry to an event at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, following pressure from the White House. This incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing political conflict between U.S. President Donald Trump and one of his most prominent Democratic critics.
Event Cancellation and Official Statements
Newsom's office reported that the governor had been invited to speak at the USA House, a venue in Davos that showcases U.S. companies. According to a post on X from his office, the USA House "under pressure from the White House and State Department" restricted his access to the area. The event was being hosted by Fortune magazine, and Newsom had planned to respond to Trump's Davos address during the media gathering.
White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly responded with a dismissive statement, misspelling Newsom's name: "No one in Davos knows who third-rate governor Newscum is or why he is frolicking around Switzerland instead of fixing the many problems he created in California." USA House officials informed the governor's staff that they had cancelled the event shortly before it was scheduled to take place.
Background and Political Context
Newsom, widely viewed as a potential presidential contender in 2028, has been actively positioning himself as an alternative to Trump on the international stage. At Davos, he criticized world leaders for their responses to Trump's push to acquire Greenland, calling them "pathetic." He also attended a speech by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, where Newsom was observed scoffing at the secretary's remarks.
The Trump administration has retaliated with sharp criticism. During his Wednesday speech, Bessent remarked that Newsom was "the only Californian who knows less about economics than Kamala Harris." Even President Trump acknowledged Newsom's presence in Davos, noting during his speech: "I know Gavin was here. I used to get along so great with Gavin when I was president. Gavin's a good guy."
Venue Details and Aftermath
The USA House is located in a church just outside the security perimeter in Davos and hosts panels with CEOs and Cabinet officials throughout the week. According to its website, the venue is "privately organized and supported through private sponsorships," with sponsors including Microsoft, Pfizer, and other corporate giants.
After being uninvited from the USA House event, Newsom was offered a "VIP nightcap" where he could have an off-the-record drink without reporters present. His office stated that the governor declined this invitation, emphasizing his commitment to public engagement and transparency.
This confrontation highlights the deepening divisions within U.S. politics as the 2028 presidential election approaches, with Newsom emerging as a key figure in Democratic opposition to Trump's policies and rhetoric.
