California Governor Gavin Newsom predicts that internal pressure within the Republican Party will compel President Donald Trump to return to the negotiating table with Canada. Newsom expressed this view during an interview with CBC News’ chief political correspondent Rosemary Barton. The timing of this statement is significant, given the impending U.S. midterm elections that will serve as a critical test for Trump’s presidency. With Republicans currently holding majority control in both the Senate and House of Representatives, the upcoming elections pose a risk of potential losses for the party in November.
Following the breakdown of trade discussions between Canada and the U.S., Prime Minister Mark Carney suspended negotiations, subsequently leading to the enforcement of Trump’s new tariffs on approximately $28 billion worth of Canadian goods. Despite the impasse, Newsom believes that Trump cannot afford an extended delay in resolving the trade dispute. He confidently stated that Trump will likely return to the negotiating table within a matter of days to a few weeks.
Expressing California’s stance on the matter, Newsom emphasized the state’s disapproval of Trump’s actions towards Canada. He criticized Trump, calling him an “invasive species” in the White House and expressed his embarrassment as an American. The ongoing trade war has had a significant impact on California, particularly affecting the state’s wine industry. California wines have been absent from many provinces’ shelves for over a year, causing a substantial decline in exports to Canada.
Newsom highlighted the challenges faced by California wine producers and acknowledged the animosity towards Canada, attributing it to Trump’s policies. Despite the difficulties, he commended Prime Minister Carney’s approach in dealing with Trump, emphasizing the importance of strength and conviction in negotiations with the President.
Although Newsom is not seeking re-election as California’s governor, there is speculation that he may consider a Democratic presidential bid in 2028. When questioned about his motives regarding Trump’s tariffs and a potential presidential run, Newsom denied any link between the two, stating that his actions are driven by principle rather than political ambitions. However, he did not rule out the possibility of running in the future, acknowledging the unpredictability of fate in politics.