Governor Gavin Newsome | Official website
Governor Gavin Newsom has engaged in a series of interviews with international media to clarify California's stance on the tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. These discussions took place as part of #WorldTradeMonth and involved journalists from Canada, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and the United Kingdom.
In an interview with BBC Newsnight's Paddy O’Connell, Governor Newsom emphasized the significant impact of these tariffs on California. "The impacts of these tariffs – the recklessness of these tariffs – are disproportionately felt on the tentpole of the U.S. economy," he stated. He highlighted that British-owned companies employ over 130,600 people in California and noted a decline in tourism from the UK.
During his conversation with Vassy Kapelos from CTV, Newsom criticized Trump's policies. "Forget Trump’s golden age of success," he said, pointing out a decline in Canadian tourism to California and emphasizing Canada's role as a major trade partner.
Speaking to Yifan Yu from TV Tokyo, Newsom reassured Japan of California's stable trading relationship. He remarked, "California is a stable trading partner," underscoring Japan's position as a significant source of foreign investment for the state.
In his discussion with Lucy Bravo from TV Azteca, Newsom addressed Mexico's critical economic ties with California. He stated that no state has been more affected by the tariffs than California and noted reductions in cargo at entry ports.
With Yoonsoo Park from MBC News Desk, Newsom stressed the importance of partnerships between South Korea and California. "Partnerships, both personally and professionally, are critical to the world we want to build," he commented.
To counteract these tariff policies, Governor Newsom announced legal actions against them. Alongside Attorney General Rob Bonta, he filed for a preliminary injunction to halt Trump's tariffs immediately. This move follows an earlier lawsuit challenging Trump's authority under the International Economic Emergency Powers Act.
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