Donald Trump escalated his attacks on two high-profile Democrats after they used the Munich Security Conference to criticize his administration’s direction at home and abroad.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump took aim at California Governor Gavin Newsom and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, calling their appearances in Germany a “bad look” for the United States. He argued that their remarks on the international stage undermined the country and later repeated his criticism on social media, accusing both Democrats of embarrassing themselves by challenging his leadership overseas.
Newsom, widely viewed as a potential 2028 presidential contender, used the conference to draw a sharp contrast between his vision and Trump’s. Addressing a global audience, he stressed that American leadership extends beyond any single presidency and suggested that the current administration’s approach is temporary. The governor has increasingly positioned California as a counterweight to federal policies, particularly on climate change and international cooperation.
Ocasio-Cortez, meanwhile, warned that democracies around the world are facing mounting pressure from right-wing populist movements. In remarks to The New York Times and during her conference appearance, she expressed concern that the United States could retreat from its global commitments and move toward a more insular and authoritarian posture if current trends continue.
Climate policy featured prominently on the conference agenda, and Newsom criticized efforts to roll back carbon pollution standards, arguing that clean energy investment is essential not only for environmental protection but also for long-term economic growth. While in Europe, he is also expected to formalize a new partnership agreement with Ukrainian regional leaders focused on economic recovery, innovation, and resilience — a move his office says reflects California’s global economic influence.
Though Newsom has not formally declared a presidential bid, his recent international appearances — including stops in Davos and Munich — suggest a broader strategy to elevate his profile beyond Sacramento. His team has framed the trip as an opportunity to strengthen trade ties, promote clean energy, and demonstrate that states like California can remain engaged with global partners even when federal priorities shift.
In a statement, Newsom’s office argued that building international partnerships helps create jobs and expand economic opportunity, drawing a clear contrast with what they describe as the administration’s retreat from allies and environmental commitments.
The exchange highlights a widening political divide, with Democrats using global forums to challenge Trump’s policies and the president responding forcefully to what he views as partisan criticism on foreign soil.
If Trump is looking for an embarrassment to the United States, all he has to do is look in the mirror.
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