Gavin Newsom Barred from Davos Fireside Chat Entry
California Governor Gavin Newsom faced an unexpected incident at the World Economic Forum in Davos. He was barred from participating in a scheduled speaking engagement at the official US pavilion due to alleged pressure from the Trump administration.
Background of the Incident
Newsom was invited to speak at the USA House, the American pavilion at the event, as part of his itinerary. His appearance was organized by Fortune, the event’s media partner. Planned remarks were scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, with additional comments at the Forum set for Thursday.
Cancellation of Entry
The governor’s Wednesday event was abruptly canceled when he was denied entry to the USA House. According to his office, this restriction followed “pressure from the White House and State Department.” Around 3 p.m. local time, a USA House representative informed Newsom’s team that having an “elected official” speak did not fit their programming schedule.
Comments from Trump Administration
Compounding the situation, officials from the Trump administration, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, had spoken at the USA House earlier. Bessent sharply criticized Newsom, labeling him as “economically illiterate” and comparing him unfavorably to Kamala Harris.
- Speaker: Scott Bessent
- Criticism: Described Newsom as “economically illiterate”
Governor’s Reaction
In response to his exclusion, Newsom expressed frustration. He posted, “How weak and pathetic do you have to be to be this scared of a fireside chat?” This remark followed his earlier public assessment of President Trump’s speech, which he found to be uninspired and disconnected from the audience.
Newsom commented, “Had there not been cellphones, I think a few people would have passed out from boredom,” reflecting his disdain for the president’s delivery.
White House Response
When asked about the tension, a White House spokeswoman dismissed Newsom’s prominence, stating, “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.”
Despite the cancellation of his public remarks, the USA House later offered Newsom the opportunity to attend a “nightcap reception.” However, tensions clearly remain high as the political rivalry escalates. As reported, Newsom’s scheduled appearance at the World Economic Forum on Thursday continues as planned.
