Trump returns to California with Gavin Newsom squarely in his sights

Trump returns to California with Gavin Newsom squarely in his sights President Donald Trump will make a rare visit to California tonight, speaking at a Republican National Committee event at Trump National Golf Club - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments President Donald Trump is returning to California on Tuesday for a rare visit, headlining a Republican National Committee fundraiser at his Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes. The White House confirmed Monday that Trump will address supporters at the dinner, where he is expected to promote his administration's record on the economy and crime while drawing sharp contrasts with Democratic leaders, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom. White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales said Trump would highlight what the administration describes as its achievements in California despite the state's Democratic leadership. "The president will visit California on Tuesday to tout his wins for the people of the Golden State despite failed Democrat leadership: the largest middle-class tax cut ever, the most secure border in American history, and a plummeting crime rate," Wales said. She added that Trump would contrast his agenda with Newsom's policies, accusing the governor of raising taxes, allowing fraud in taxpayer-funded programs and protecting dangerous undocumented immigrants. Newsom, who is widely viewed as a potential Democratic presidential candidate, has emerged as one of Trump's most outspoken critics. On Monday, the governor took aim at the administration over the federal minimum wage. "California is raising the minimum wage to $17.40 an hour next year — more than DOUBLE the federal minimum wage," Newsom wrote on social media. "Donald Trump and the GOP are still defending a $7.25 minimum wage while workers scrape by. Pitiful." The White House did not immediately release details of Trump's travel schedule or whether his visit could affect traffic around Los Angeles International Airport. After the California event, Trump is scheduled to travel to Las Vegas, where he will speak Wednesday at the Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa about the economy and tax relief. Trump's last official trip to California came in January 2025, when he toured communities devastated by the Palisades Fire and met with local officials, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments [Image text:] AMERICA PATAGAIN