Newsom Promotes $100 'Trump Signature' Kneepads During NYC Book Tour

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California Governor Gavin Newsom used a New York City book tour stop to promote his controversial '$100 Trump Signature Series' kneepads, which he claims 'sold out' the last time they were in stock. Newsom also used the event to boost his 'Campaign for Democracy' committee, which is seen as laying the groundwork for a potential 2028 presidential run.

Why it matters

Newsom's shameless promotion of the anti-Trump merchandise during a book event raises ethical questions about the blurring of political campaigning and book promotion. The kneepads are viewed by many as a crass attempt to profit off political divisions and antagonize the former president, while Newsom's political committee suggests he is already positioning himself for a future White House bid.

The details

During the book event at the Temple Emanu-El Streicker Cultural Center in New York City, Newsom told the audience he had brought a pair of the $100 red kneepads with Trump's signature-like autograph to the recent World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, though he said the move 'didn't go over well' with attendees there. Newsom claimed the kneepads had 'sold out' the last time they were available on his website, which he said was funding his 'Campaign for Democracy' committee as he looks ahead to a potential 2028 presidential run.

• Newsom promoted the kneepads during a book event in New York City on February 24, 2026.
• Newsom claimed the kneepads had 'sold out' the last time they were available on his website.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Newsom's controversial kneepads and political committee suggest he is already laying the groundwork for a potential 2028 presidential run, though he has not officially announced any such plans.