California Governor Promotes Anti-Trump Merchandise at NYC Event

During a recent book event in New York City, California Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted his controversial anti-Trump merchandise store. Attendees, including those joining virtually, were required to purchase his memoir for entry.

Approaching the end of the event at the Temple Emanu El Streiker Cultural Center, Newsom quipped, “Please forgive me, because I know my time is limited, but as you know, I started the Patriot Store.”

He mentioned selling new Trump Signature Series kneepads, priced at $100, which feature a design inspired by President Trump’s recognizable signature.

Newsom noted that these kneepads were previously “sold out” and drew a parallel to various institutions—like colleges and businesses—”selling out” the country.

Interestingly, he recounted bringing the kneepads to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where they didn’t seem to be well-received. “I don’t think I’ll be invited again,” he reflected.

At the same time, he emphasized that the nation is facing a “serious moment,” stating, “This is a moral moment.”

Proceeds from the unusual merchandise sold on Newsom’s website are intended to support his Democratic Campaign Committee and bolster his profile as he gears up for the widely expected 2028 presidential race.

According to polling averages from RealClearPolitics, Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris are the leading Democratic contenders in a hypothetical national primary, with Harris at 28.3% and Newsom at 20.7%.

Additionally, Newsom took the opportunity to promote his memoir, “Youth in a Hurry,” during the event, which was moderated by Gen Z influencer Harry Sisson.

Newsom asserted, “This is not a political book written just to get ahead of a cycle…legally,” and added, “I’m on the other side now… in the second phase of my life.”