Trump Speaks on Newsom During Davos Speech

President Trump expressed admiration for California Governor Gavin Newsom, who was in attendance at his speech during the World Economic Forum in Davos. This praise came despite their earlier public disagreements.

“I know Gavin was here. I got along quite well with him when I was president,” Trump stated. “He’s a good man.” He recalled offering assistance to Los Angeles early in his presidency, suggesting that Democratic leaders should reach out to him for collaboration, even saying it could enhance their public image. “We have zero crime,” he added.

Earlier in the week, Newsom had publicly clashed with officials from the Trump administration, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who critiqued Newsom as “self-righteous” and “economically ignorant” following comments the governor made about housing and retirement.

As Newsom contemplates a potential presidential bid in 2028, he took the opportunity to criticize Trump during a press conference in Davos. He accused European leaders of yielding to Trump’s influence, stating, “Diplomacy with Donald Trump? He’s a tyrannosaurus. Either you mate with him or he devours you.” This remark prompted a swift response from the White House.

White House Deputy Press Secretary Khush Desai urged Newsom to focus on improving California rather than minimizing the U.S. on the global stage.

Additionally, Trump did not hold back in discussing Newsom’s leadership of California. He remarked, “I hate the way it’s run,” during a press conference celebrating the anniversary of his second non-consecutive term as president. Reflecting on their relationship, Trump said, “We just went off the rails somewhere. I hate the California way.”