California Governor Gavin Newsom is taking a stand against the Trump administration’s tariffs, which he claims are harming the state’s economy. On April 16, 2025, Newsom, alongside California Attorney General Rob Bonta, announced that they are suing the federal government over these tariffs. During a press conference in Ceres, California, Newsom highlighted the significant negative impact these tariffs have had on businesses and consumers in the state.
The lawsuit targets the use of emergency powers by the Trump administration to impose tariffs that, according to Newsom, disrupt supply chains and inflate costs for Californians. He emphasized that California’s economy, which ranks as the fifth largest in the world, has suffered billions in damages due to these policies. Newsom described the situation as urgent, stating that immediate action is necessary to protect the state’s economic interests.
Bonta echoed the governor’s concerns, asserting that the tariffs are not just a political issue but a matter of economic survival for many Californians. He noted that the legal action aims to challenge what they see as overreach by the federal government and to restore fairness to the state’s economy.
This lawsuit comes at a time when California is already facing significant budget challenges. With nearly a billion-dollar budget gap looming, the state is under pressure to find solutions. Newsom’s administration is seeking to address these financial issues while also ensuring that the federal government does not impose further economic harm through its policies.
The governor’s move has garnered attention, as it highlights the ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities. As the case unfolds, it will be closely watched by both supporters and opponents of the tariffs, as well as by those concerned about the broader implications for California’s economy.