Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent sharply mocked California Governor Gavin Newsom over his comments at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Newsom had compared former President Donald Trump to a “tyrannosaurus rex,” prompting Bessent to fire back that Newsom instead resembles a “brontosaurus with the brain the size of a walnut.”

Bessent also targeted Newsom’s reference to bringing kneepads to the Davos meeting, a quip Newsom made regarding European leaders perceived as overly compliant with Trump. Bessent wryly suggested the kneepads may have been for Newsom’s meeting with Alex Soros, fueling speculation about potential Democratic funding connections.

The Treasury Secretary’s remarks highlight ongoing political tensions between Trump-aligned officials and Democratic leaders, particularly in California, and underscore the sharp rhetorical exchanges emerging from international events like Davos. Bessent’s pointed humor and direct critique of Newsom’s statements reflect a broader effort by Trump administration figures to counter narratives they view as politically motivated exaggerations or personal attacks.

Observers note that Bessent’s comments may resonate with conservative audiences frustrated by Newsom’s repeated criticisms of Trump, portraying the California governor as out of touch and overly theatrical in his international commentary. The episode adds to the ongoing scrutiny of high-profile politicians’ engagements at Davos and their subsequent media narratives.