California Governor Gavin Newsom predicts that internal pressure within the Republican Party will compel U.S. 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. This development comes ahead of the upcoming U.S. midterm elections, which will serve as a crucial test for Trump’s presidency as Republicans currently control both the Senate and House of Representatives but are at risk of losing their majority in November.
Recent trade discussions between Canada and the U.S. collapsed, leading Prime Minister Mark Carney to suspend negotiations. Shortly after, Trump imposed new tariffs on approximately $28 billion worth of Canadian goods. Newsom expressed his belief that Trump cannot afford to prolong the break in negotiations and anticipates his return to the bargaining table within a few weeks.
Asserting California’s stance, Newsom condemned Trump’s actions towards Canada, emphasizing, “We do not in any way condone the behavior of this president concerning how he’s treated you.” Newsom criticized Trump as an “invasive species” in the White House and expressed embarrassment as an American.
The ongoing trade dispute has significantly impacted California, particularly its wine industry, with Canadian markets no longer carrying wines from the state. Canada was previously the largest foreign market for California wine, but between 2024 and 2025, U.S. wine exports to Canada decreased by $343 million according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In response to questions about potential animosity from California wine producers towards Canada, Newsom acknowledged such sentiments, attributing the situation to Trump and stressing, “It’s not California. I’m the most un-Trump state in America.”
Despite the challenges faced by California’s wine industry, Newsom acknowledged the unlikelihood of a swift return of wines to Canadian shelves following the collapse of a potential agreement to end the ban. He commended Carney’s approach towards Trump, highlighting the importance of strength and conviction in dealing with the president.
Newsom, who is not seeking re-election as California’s governor, is speculated to be a Democratic candidate for the 2028 presidential election. When asked if his opposition to Trump’s tariffs could be seen as a strategic move for a potential presidential bid, Newsom dismissed the notion, emphasizing that his actions are not driven by political aspirations. However, he did not rule out the possibility of a future presidential run, acknowledging the uncertainty of fate in his political career.