Newsom Accuses Trump Administration of Authoritarianism at Davos Forum
During the World Economic Forum in Davos, California Governor Gavin Newsom voiced strong criticisms against former President Donald Trump. His remarks followed the cancellation of his originally scheduled speech, allegedly due to pressure from the Trump administration.
Newsom’s Critique of Trump Administration
On Thursday morning, Newsom seized the opportunity to address the influential audience in Davos. He characterized Trump as an authoritarian leader who has fostered a system of crony capitalism. Newsom expressed concern over Trump’s growing wealth and the perceived negative impact on American governance.
- Event: World Economic Forum, Davos
- Date: January 22, 2026
- Key Figure: Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
- Accusations: Authoritarianism, crony capitalism, civil rights violations
In a livestreamed interview with Ben Smith, editor-in-chief of Semafor, Newsom lamented the authoritarian tendencies of the Trump administration. He pointed to instances of federal law enforcement actions and military presence in U.S. cities as evidence of this decline towards autocracy.
Cancellation of Newsom’s Speaking Slot
Newsom’s planned address at the USA House was allegedly scrapped after intervention from White House and U.S. State Department officials. According to Newsom’s team, these officials pressured the media organization Fortune to cancel his appearance. A spokesperson from the White House did not deny these claims but rather demeaned Newsom’s relevance at the forum.
Political Landscape and Future Aspirations
As Newsom prepares for what many speculate could be a presidential campaign in 2028, he continues to critique Trump’s legacy. He emphasized that future Democratic candidates will likely confront the lasting effects of Trump’s presidency. His recent remarks reinforce a message he has consistently delivered, portraying California as a model for governance amid challenges.
- Future Political Move: Considering a presidential run in 2028
- California’s Status: Balancing a budget deficit while highlighting achievements in various sectors
Despite recent criticisms regarding governance in California, Newsom defended his record, arguing that significant investments in health care and public education are yielding positive outcomes. He acknowledged the need for accountability but maintained confidence in California’s capabilities while challenging the narratives surrounding its governance.
Newsom’s dynamic presence in Davos marked a critical moment in his political journey, illustrating the ongoing tensions between state leadership and federal authority under the Trump administration.
