California Governor Gavin Newsom alleged this week that former U.S. President Donald Trump's administration prevented him from addressing media at the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The incident occurred during ongoing debates about federal-state relations and America's global diplomatic approach.
Newsom's office stated via social media that organizers of the U.S. pavilion venue – a church group operating as USA House – rescinded his speaking invitation under pressure from Trump-aligned officials. 'Last we checked, California is part of USA,' Newsom wrote on X, criticizing what he called politically motivated exclusion.
The dispute escalated as Newsom sought to counter Trump's controversial remarks about pursuing ownership claims over Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory. The California governor had earlier criticized European leaders for what he termed 'complicity' in accommodating Trump's geopolitical demands during his presidency.
Analysts suggest the incident highlights lingering tensions in U.S. domestic politics impacting international engagements. With Asia-Pacific nations closely monitoring Western leadership dynamics, such developments could influence perceptions of American political stability ahead of crucial 2026 midterm elections.
