California Governor Gavin Newsom predicts that internal pressure within the Republican Party will compel President Donald Trump to resume negotiations with Canada. In an interview with CBC News chief political correspondent Rosemary Barton, Newsom stated that Trump is facing significant criticism from his own party. These remarks come ahead of the U.S. midterm elections that will serve as a test for Trump’s presidency, with Republicans currently holding majority control in Congress but facing potential losses in November.
The breakdown of trade discussions between Canada and the U.S. led Prime Minister Mark Carney to suspend negotiations, coinciding with the implementation of new tariffs by Trump on approximately $28 billion worth of Canadian goods. Newsom expressed his belief that Trump cannot afford to prolong the hiatus and anticipates his return to the negotiating table within a short period, possibly within two to three weeks.
Emphasizing California’s stance, Newsom condemned Trump’s behavior towards Canada, stating, “We do not in any way condone the president’s actions in how he has treated Canada.” The governor criticized Trump, describing him as an “invasive species” in the White House and expressed embarrassment as an American.
California has been significantly impacted by the trade dispute, particularly affecting the state’s wine industry. Following a decline in wine exports to Canada by $343 million between 2024 and 2025, California wine producers have faced challenges, with their products absent from many Canadian shelves for over a year. Newsom acknowledged the animosity felt by California wine makers towards Canada and attributed the situation to Trump’s actions.
Despite the difficulties faced by the wine industry, Newsom acknowledged the prolonged absence of California wine from Canadian shelves, indicating that a potential agreement to end the trade restrictions was abandoned. He commended Carney’s approach towards Trump, highlighting that the president values strength and conviction.
Newsom, who is not seeking re-election as governor, is rumored to be a potential Democratic candidate for the 2028 presidential race. When asked if his opposition to Trump’s tariffs is linked to his political ambitions, Newsom denied any connection, stating, “it has nothing to do with why I’m doing this.” However, he did not completely rule out a future presidential bid, acknowledging the role of fate in such decisions.
