Donald Trump Criticizes Gavin Newsom During California Visit

Donald Trump visited Rancho Palos Verdes, California, on Tuesday, August 5, 2026, to address a Republican National Committee event at the Trump National Golf Club. The president used the appearance to highlight economic improvements and crime reduction while attacking the policies of California Governor Gavin Newsom.

White House spokesperson Olivia Wales stated that Trump intended to contrast his agenda with what she termed the radical policies of Newsom, specifically citing tax increases and border security. In response, Newsom criticized the administration for maintaining a federal minimum wage of $7.25, noting that California will raise its own minimum wage to $17.40 per hour next year.

The visit followed a security incident on Sunday, when the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department arrested a man found with a loaded weapon and hollow-point ammunition while monitoring security preparations at the golf club. To avoid local traffic, the president traveled via Marine One between Los Angeles International Airport and the venue. Following the event, Trump departed for Las Vegas to deliver a speech on tax relief and the economy at the Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa.