Gavin Newsom takes Trump fight global at Davos, then gets blocked from U.S. Pavilion

California Governor Gavin Newsom brought his long-running political rivalry with President Donald Trump to the world stage this week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, delivering sharp criticism of the administration, and walking straight into a high-profile controversy that further elevated his national profile.

Newsom’s appearance at Davos, marked by public mockery of Trump, biting rhetoric toward global business leaders, and a subsequent claim that he was blocked from a U.S. pavilion, quickly became one of the forum’s most talked-about political moments.

The episode underscored Newsom’s growing visibility as a top Democratic contender for 2028, while highlighting how U.S. domestic politics increasingly spill into global arenas.

Trump Calls Out Newsom During Davos Speech

The flashpoint came Wednesday when Trump publicly acknowledged Newsom during his Davos address, a speech that ranged from U.S. crime policy to renewed demands that Denmark cede control of Greenland.

“We’re going to help the people in California,” Trump said, adding that he “used to get along so great with Gavin.”

Cameras captured Newsom smiling and appearing to chuckle as Trump spoke, a moment that quickly circulated on social media and fueled online sparring between their teams.

Trump also suggested that a Democratic governor should invite him in for political optics, a comment widely interpreted as a dig at Newsom’s national ambitions.

Newsom Calls Trump’s Speech ‘Remarkably Boring’

Speaking afterward to CNN, Newsom dismissed Trump’s Davos remarks as “remarkably boring” and “remarkably insignificant.”

“There wasn’t anything new about that speech for the American audience,” Newsom said, brushing off Trump’s renewed Greenland rhetoric and arguing that threats of military force were never serious.

“I don’t think the military force was ever real,” he said, adding that the tone reflected “deep anxiety” among business leaders at the forum.

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Blocked From USA House After Fortune Invitation

Hours later, Newsom’s press office accused the Trump administration of blocking him from entering USA House, the official American pavilion in Davos, where he had been scheduled to appear at an event hosted by Fortune.

“Under pressure from the White House and State Department, USA House is now denying entry to Governor Gavin Newsom,” his team posted on X.

The White House denied involvement, dismissing Newsom as a “third-rate governor” and questioning why he was in Switzerland instead of addressing California’s problems.

Fortune later confirmed that USA House made the decision, citing space and logistical constraints.

‘Rule of Don’: Newsom’s Most Aggressive Davos Message Yet

Newsom’s most striking moment came during his 30-minute Davos session, where he accused the U.S. of abandoning the rule of law in favor of what he called “the Rule of Don.”

“There’s no rule of law,” Newsom said. “It’s the rule of Don.”

He accused Congress, universities, law firms, and corporate leaders of “rolling over” for Trump, dramatically waving bright red kneepads as a visual metaphor for corporate submission.

The move drew applause, and headlines, reinforcing Newsom’s reputation for theatrical, media-savvy political messaging.

Newsom’s Strategy: Humor, Mockery, and Trump’s Own Playbook

Newsom has increasingly adopted Trump-style communication tactics, including memes, all-caps posts, and AI-generated images, to mock the president online.

In a previous interview, Newsom said the strategy was deliberate.

“We put a mirror up to Trump,” he explained. “The absurdity speaks for itself.”

The approach marks a clear evolution from traditional Democratic messaging, and signals Newsom’s intent to dominate the political conversation, not just respond to it.

Davos Sets the Stage for a 2028 Presidential Run

Political analysts say Newsom’s high-profile Davos appearance, and the controversy that followed, only strengthened his national profile.

The governor has attended Davos multiple times, including during his tenure as San Francisco mayor, but this year’s visit carried new weight as speculation over the 2028 Democratic nomination intensifies.

Other potential contenders, including Gretchen Whitmer and Andy Beshear, were also present, but none generated comparable attention.

Whether intentional or not, Newsom left Davos positioned as Trump’s most visible Democratic foil on the global stage.

FAQ

Why was Gavin Newsom at Davos?

Newsom attended the World Economic Forum to challenge Trump’s economic vision, engage global leaders, and raise his international profile.

What did Gavin Newsom say about Trump at Davos?

He criticized Trump’s leadership, mocked world leaders for enabling him, and said the U.S. is living under the “Rule of Don.”

Why was Gavin Newsom blocked from USA House?

Newsom’s team said political pressure led to the decision, while organizers cited logistical constraints. The White House denied involvement.

Did Trump mention Gavin Newsom in his Davos speech?

Yes. Trump acknowledged Newsom’s presence, called him a “good guy,” and referenced their past relationship.

What are the kneepads Newsom brought to Davos about?

They symbolized Newsom’s claim that corporate and political leaders are kneeling to Trump rather than challenging him.

Is Gavin Newsom running for president in 2028?

Newsom has not formally announced a campaign, but political experts widely view him as a top Democratic contender.

What is the ‘Rule of Don’?

It’s Newsom’s phrase describing what he sees as Trump’s dominance over institutions that should operate independently.

Did other 2028 candidates attend Davos?

Yes. Gretchen Whitmer and Andy Beshear were present, though Newsom received the most attention.