Critique of California Governor at World Economic Forum
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent directed his criticism toward California Governor Gavin Newsom during a speech at the World Economic Forum this week. He specifically addressed Newsom’s economic track record, his appearance at Davos with Alex Soros, and how he has managed various issues like homelessness, budget deficits, and policies from the pandemic.
Bessent commented, “It’s quite ironic that Governor Newsom, who seems to embody a mix of Patrick Bateman and Sparkle Beach Ken, might be the only person in California who knows less about economics than Kamala Harris.” This remark was intended to emphasize what he sees as the governor’s lack of understanding in economic matters.
He also pointed out what he considers the governor’s hypocrisy during the pandemic, mentioning Newsom’s high-profile dining habits at places like the French Laundry while ordinary Californians faced strict lockdowns. “When he was enjoying $1,000 dinners, people were being arrested for simply attending church. Davos is quite the place for him,” Bessent remarked.
Newsom made headlines by calling out world leaders who struggled to stand up against former President Donald Trump. He urged, “It’s time to stand firm and stop colluding. We need to show backbones, not roll over.” His comments found support from Soros, who acknowledged Newsom as a standout at the World Economic Forum.
Bessent criticized Newsom’s attendance in Davos as indicative of misplaced priorities. “He is mingling with the global elite while Californians are struggling with homelessness. He should honestly feel ashamed,” he stated.
The Treasury Secretary linked Newsom’s economic performance to overall issues in California. He highlighted the negative outcomes of some of Newsom’s policies, noting issues like emigration from the state, significant budget shortfalls, an alarming homeless population, and even homes in upscale areas being set ablaze.
Bessent’s comments also touched upon the Trump administration’s responses to what he called Newsom’s leadership failures. He stated, “My message to Governor Newsom is clear: ‘The Trump administration is coming to California.’ We will enforce measures against waste, fraud, and abuse.” This statement underscores ongoing fraud investigations affecting several Democrat-led states, including California, which recently faced scrutiny over $10 billion in frozen federal child care funds due to fraud concerns.
In recent developments, Dana Williamson, a former chief of staff to Newsom, has been indicted on multiple counts related to conspiracy and fraud. The Department of Government Efficiency reported that California has paid a large portion of the $382 million in fraudulent unemployment benefits identified since 2020.
The federal government is reportedly intensifying its focus on fraud, with plans to create a new division within the Justice Department aimed at addressing fraud across the country. Although the initial focus is on Minnesota, there is also a separate investigation into alleged fraud in California’s welfare, education, and unemployment systems.
Bessent wrapped up by casting doubt on Newsom’s capability to govern, asserting that he is “too self-righteous, too narcissistic, and too economically uninformed” to make informed decisions.
