Governor Newsom Addresses Global Media, Rejects Federal Tariffs as Harmful to California’s Economy

Photo Credit: California Governor’s Office

SACRAMENTO, May 14, 2025 (CALIFORNIA NEWS TODAY) — California Governor Gavin Newsom held a series of interviews with international media outlets to mark World Trade Month and stated that recent federal tariff policies do not represent California’s approach to international trade.

Newsom spoke with journalists from the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Mexico, and South Korea to address economic concerns and reassure trading partners of California’s commitment to international cooperation.

In an interview with BBC Newsnight’s Paddy O’Connell, Newsom stated:

“The impacts of these tariffs – the recklessness of these tariffs – are disproportionately felt on the tentpole of the U.S. economy. We’re 14% of the U.S. economy, so the success of this country is, in many respects, determined by the success of this state.”

The Governor also spoke with Vassy Kapelos of Canada’s CTV, where he commented:

“Forget Trump’s golden age of success. From our ports to our shopping carts to vacation hotspots, the Trump Slump has already begun. American families shouldn’t have to pay for this administration’s chaotic policies.”

California exported $5 billion in goods to the United Kingdom in 2024 and hosts over 130,600 jobs linked to British-owned companies. However, tourism from the United Kingdom to California was down 22% in March 2025 compared to the previous year.

Canada remains one of California’s key trade and investment partners. In 2024, California exported $18.4 billion and imported $16.3 billion in goods from Canada. Canadian tourism to California declined by 16% in March 2025 compared to March 2024.

For more information, visit www.gov.ca.gov.

Source: California Governor’s Office