At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Gov. Gavin Newsom criticized world leaders for "rolling over" to President Trump — and a photo of him with Alexander Soros quickly went viral. Alex Soros posted the image praising Newsom, while conservative figures, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Sen. Ted Cruz, mocked the optics and circulated satirical edits. The exchange revived discussion of Soros' past donations to Newsom and prompted a dispute over whether the governor was barred from speaking at the USA House in Davos.
Viral Davos Photo: Newsom Poses With Alex Soros, Sparks Mockery and Political Backlash
California Gov. Gavin Newsom attends the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026.(Getty Images)
California Governor Gavin Newsom's appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos drew fresh scrutiny after a photograph of him with Alexander (Alex) Soros circulated widely online. The image reignited partisan criticism after Newsom used his Davos platform to accuse some world leaders of "rolling over" to President Donald Trump.
What Happened
Newsom criticized global leaders at the forum, saying some were "rolling over" to President Trump and quipping that he "should have brought a bunch of kneepads for all the world leaders." Shortly afterward, Alex Soros posted a photo of himself with Newsom praising the governor's remarks and urging world leaders to "stand tall, stand firm, and stand united." The post was amplified and quickly circulated among critics.
Political Reactions
The photo prompted a wave of conservative commentary. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mocked Newsom at a press event at the USA House in Davos, saying the governor "strikes me as Patrick Bateman meets Sparkle Beach Ken" and later criticizing Newsom's pandemic-era policies alongside claims about expensive personal dinners. Senator Ted Cruz shared an AI-edited version of the photo, placing Newsom in a NASCAR-style racing suit covered with mock sponsorships.
"Great catching up with the real star of the 2026 World Economic Forum, my friend Gavin Newsom," Alex Soros wrote alongside the photo praising Newsom's stance.
Other conservative commentators and political aides used the image to question Newsom's optics and allegiances. White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers used derisive language toward the governor, while several pundits and former officials leveled satire and criticism on social media.
Alex Soros, son of billionaire megadonor George Soros, congratulates Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani on his New York City election victory.
Context And Background
Alex Soros has publicly supported Newsom in the past and has donated roughly $70,000 to the governor’s political efforts, according to reporting. The two have been photographed together at prior events, including the Clinton Global Initiative and climate forums.
Claims About The USA House And Responses
Separately, Newsom said the Trump administration blocked him from speaking at the USA House in Davos. The White House declined to confirm or deny that claim; a White House spokesperson criticized Newsom’s presence at the forum and questioned his focus while governor.
Why It Matters
The episode illustrates how a single photograph at a high-profile international meeting can become political ammunition in Washington. It also highlights tensions between the governor and national Republican figures ahead of the 2024–2026 campaign cycle, and underscores how social media and AI edits can amplify political messaging and satire.
Fact Check: The article preserves the quoted statements and reported donation amounts; Fox News Digital reportedly sought comment from Newsom’s office but had not received a response at the time of publication.
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