Altitude Post

Covering American Politics, Politicians, and Elections.

“He May Be the Only Californian Who Knows Less About Economics Than Kamala Harris” — Scott Bessent Slams Gavin Newsom — “He Is Too Smug, Too Self-Absorbed, and Too Economically Illiterate to Know Anything”

Kurt Steffens

January 21, 2026

“He May Be the Only Californian Who Knows Less About Economics Than Kamala Harris” — Scott Bessent Slams Gavin Newsom — “He Is Too Smug, Too Self-Absorbed, and Too Economically Illiterate to Know Anything”

At the World Economic Forum in Davos on Tuesday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent sharply criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom, saying he may be “the only Californian who knows less about economics than Kamala Harris.”

Bessent, speaking to reporters during a press briefing, drew attention to what he described as Newsom’s lack of economic expertise while attending the international forum. “It’s very, very ironic that Governor Newsom… may be the only Californian who knows less about economics than Kamala Harris,” Bessent said.

Scott Bessent goes scorched earth on "sparkle beach Ken" Gavin Newsom at Davos, calling him "the only Californian who knows less about economics than Kamala Harris."

"He's here this week with his billionaire sugar daddy Alex Soros." pic.twitter.com/FjjwcPBgjD
— The Western Journal (@WesternJournalX) January 21, 2026

The Treasury secretary’s remarks come as tensions between the Trump administration and the California governor continue to surface in international settings. Bessent also referenced Newsom’s public appearances with wealthy figures at Davos, suggesting the governor is disconnected from domestic economic challenges in his state.

Bessent criticized Newsom for what he called policies that have contributed to outward migration, a large budget deficit, and the state’s growing homeless population. “He is too smug, too self-absorbed, and too economically illiterate to know anything,” Bessent said.

The comments follow previous disputes between the Trump administration and Newsom regarding California’s handling of economic and social programs, including relief efforts during wildfire seasons.

Newsom, for his part, has pushed back against the administration’s international posture, urging allies to maintain independence in dealings with the United States. “There’s no diplomacy with Donald Trump,” Newsom said in a statement at the forum, criticizing the president’s approach to global engagement.

America’s allies and business leaders need to understand this:

There’s no diplomacy with Donald Trump.

Get off your knees and grow a spine. pic.twitter.com/epAphL4CYn
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) January 20, 2026

Bessent’s remarks highlight the ongoing friction between federal officials and California leadership, emphasizing economic policy and governance as key points of contention.

About Author

Zane Clark

Zane Clark is a writer whose interest in national affairs began at age 11, during a birthday ride in a 1966 Piper 180C that sparked an early curiosity about history and current events. That first moment of perspective grew into a lasting fascination with the people, conflicts, and decisions influencing the nation’s direction. Today, Zane brings clear, informed storytelling to Altitude Post, covering everything from major events to the individuals helping shape the country’s future. When he’s not writing, he’s researching history, following current developments, spotting aircraft, attending airshows or exploring the stories behind the headlines.