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Davos, Switzerland | January 22, 2026 :
Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, launched a sharp attack on US President Donald Trump during an appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, claiming that the United States is witnessing a breakdown of democratic norms.
Speaking during an interview session at the global forum, Newsom said the country is currently living under what he termed the “rule of Don.”
“No Rule of Law, Only Rule of Don”: Newsom
Around ten minutes into his discussion with Semafor’s Ben Smith, Newsom questioned the state of American democracy. He cited the weakening of core democratic principles, including the rule of law, popular sovereignty, and the balance of power among government institutions.
“Co-equal branches of government, the rule of law, popular sovereignty — tell me that reflects the America you read about today,” Newsom said.
He further accused the United States Congress of remaining passive in the face of what he described as executive overreach.
Criticism of Universities, Law Firms, and Corporations
During the fourth day of the WEF, Newsom also criticised American universities, major law firms, and corporate leaders. He alleged that several institutions were yielding to political pressure from the Trump administration.
To make his point, Newsom displayed bright red knee pads, symbolising what he described as corporate submission. Although he did not name specific companies or CEOs, the gesture drew applause from the audience.
Newsom Pushes Back on Trump’s Capitalism Vision
A regular attendee at Davos, Newsom said he travelled to the forum to challenge Trump’s vision of capitalism and governance. He has attended the World Economic Forum multiple times, including during his tenure as mayor of San Francisco from 2004 to 2011.
Trump Responds, Calls Newsom a “Good Guy”
During his own speech at Davos, Trump acknowledged Newsom’s presence at the forum. He described the California Governor as a “good guy” and said the two leaders once shared a cordial relationship.
Despite the remarks, tensions escalated after Newsom was denied entry to the US House for a scheduled fireside chat. Reacting on social media platform X, Newsom criticised the administration, calling the move “weak and pathetic.”
He later declined an invitation to attend a “VIP Nightcap” at the US House.
Exchange of Remarks With US Treasury Secretary
Newsom also exchanged sharp remarks with Scott Bessent during the forum. At a press briefing, Bessent criticised Newsom personally, calling him “smug” and “economically illiterate.”
Newsom’s Growing Role as Trump Critic
In recent years, Newsom has emerged as a prominent critic of Republican leadership. He has frequently clashed with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who previously positioned himself as Trump’s main challenger within the Republican Party.
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