Newsom Hopes Trump Backs Down on Greenland

California governor believes markets could influence president's controversial stance

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:08pm

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A fractured, abstract painting in shades of blue and white, depicting a distorted globe or map of Greenland, conveying the sense of geopolitical uncertainty and tension surrounding Trump's threats to seize the territory.Newsom's prediction that Trump's focus on the markets could influence his controversial Greenland policy reflects the high-stakes geopolitical drama unfolding on the global stage.Los Angeles Today

California Governor Gavin Newsom has a bold prediction: President Donald Trump might back down from his controversial Greenland seizure threats, and it's all thanks to the markets. Newsom believes Trump's attention to the markets could be his saving grace, or his downfall. The governor's insight comes as Trump's threats to seize Greenland from Denmark have caused geopolitical shockwaves, with European leaders desperately seeking a solution.

Why it matters

Newsom's comments offer a unique perspective on the Greenland situation, as he believes the markets might influence Trump's decisions. This could have significant implications for transatlantic relations and the broader geopolitical landscape.

The details

Newsom hinted at the power of Trump's teleprompter and the influence of Fox News on his decisions. The governor recalls a once positive relationship during the COVID pandemic, but Trump's actions, like federalizing the National Guard and sending Marines to Los Angeles, were the breaking point. Newsom believes Trump's refusal to aid California during the wildfires and his focus on the state due to its technological advancements and personal connections have made it a target.

  • Newsom's comments were made in an exclusive interview with POLITICO in Davos.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Democratic governor of California and a potential 2028 presidential candidate, Newsom has a rocky relationship with President Trump and believes the markets could influence the president's controversial Greenland stance.

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States, whose threats to seize Greenland from Denmark have caused geopolitical tensions and strained transatlantic relations.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The world waits with bated breath for Trump's speech in Davos, where the fate of Greenland and transatlantic relations might just hang in the balance.

The takeaway

Newsom's comments offer a unique perspective on the Greenland situation, highlighting the potential influence of the markets on Trump's decisions and the broader implications for geopolitics and California's relationship with the president.