Former US President Donald Trump has voiced strong criticism of California Governor Gavin Newsom's potential presidential ambitions, expressing amazement at his consideration of a White House run while delivering a sharp two-word insult about his competence.
Trump's Blunt Assessment of Newsom's Leadership
In a recent Oval Office interview with The California Post, as reported by the New York Post, Trump made his feelings about Newsom abundantly clear. "I'm amazed Gavin wants to run for office," Trump stated, setting the tone for his critical remarks about the California governor's political aspirations.
The former president's comments come against the backdrop of ongoing tensions between his administration and California state policies. During his presidency, Trump's administration had taken legal action against California over sanctuary policies, accused the state of fraud, and withdrawn federal funding, creating a contentious relationship that continues to influence his perspective.
California's Leadership Under Fire
Trump, who owns a golf course in California, didn't hold back in his assessment of the state's current direction under Newsom's governance. "People love the dream of California, but they hate what's happening to them," he remarked, suggesting a disconnect between California's idealized image and its current reality.
The former president argued that California requires "proper leadership" and emphasized his belief that residents aren't receiving it from their current governor. His criticism culminated in a direct two-word assessment: "Gavin's incompetent."
Political Context and Polling Numbers
According to the report, Newsom currently holds 24% support among Democratic voters, positioning him ahead of several potential contenders including former Vice President Kamala Harris at 21%, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at 11%, and New York City Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez at 8%.
Trump predicted that Newsom's record in California would follow him throughout any presidential campaign, specifically highlighting the controversial high-speed rail project intended to connect Los Angeles to San Francisco, which Trump derisively called a "train to nowhere."
Deteriorating Relationship Between Trump and Newsom
The former president revealed that his relationship with Newsom has significantly deteriorated over time. "I used to get along with him, but now it's sort of a hopeless situation," Trump explained. "They've gone radical left. They're crazy."
This shift from friendly interactions during Trump's first term to what he now describes as a "hopeless" dynamic reflects the deepening political divisions between conservative and progressive approaches to governance.
International Context and Timing
Interestingly, both political figures found themselves in Davos, Switzerland simultaneously for the World Economic Forum, though there's no indication they interacted during the event. Newsom, who is reportedly weighing a potential 2028 White House bid, attended the forum alongside numerous global leaders and policymakers.
Trump's remarks highlight the ongoing political tensions that continue to shape American discourse, particularly as potential candidates begin positioning themselves for future electoral contests. The former president's willingness to publicly criticize a prominent Democratic governor underscores the persistent partisan divisions that characterize contemporary US politics.
