Newsom Confirms Months-Long Silence with Trump Since LA National Guard Federalization

San Francisco – Governor Gavin Newsom revealed to reporters in San Francisco that he has not engaged in direct communication with President Donald Trump since the federalization of the National Guard in Los Angeles earlier this summer. This statement, made public via a tweet from political reporter Ashley Zavala, underscores a significant communication chasm between the state's chief executive and the federal commander-in-chief following a critical military deployment. The lack of dialogue highlights ongoing tensions in the high-stakes relationship between California and the federal government.

The federalization of the National Guard in Los Angeles, which occurred amidst widespread civil unrest and demonstrations earlier in the summer of 2025, saw the state-controlled forces placed under federal command. Such a move is typically reserved for severe emergencies or national security concerns, transferring authority from the governor to the president. This action, while intended to restore order, often sparks debate over states' rights and federal overreach, particularly without explicit gubernatorial consent.

The reported communication blackout between Governor Newsom and President Trump reflects a continuation of their often-strained relationship. Historically, the two leaders have publicly clashed on numerous policy fronts, including environmental regulations, immigration, and COVID-19 response. This latest revelation suggests that even critical events requiring inter-governmental coordination have not mended the deep political and personal divides.

Ashley Zavala, a prominent political reporter, shared the Governor's direct quote on social media, stating, > "Gov. Newsom tells reporters in SF he hasn’t spoken to President Trump since he federalized the National Guard in LA earlier this summer." This direct attribution provides a clear and concise insight into the current state of affairs. The federalization process itself involves the President invoking the Insurrection Act or other statutes to assume control of state National Guard units, a measure with profound implications for state sovereignty and emergency response protocols.

The ongoing silence between the two leaders raises questions about the efficacy of inter-governmental collaboration during future crises affecting California. Analysts suggest that a breakdown in communication at such high levels could impede coordinated efforts, potentially impacting resource allocation and strategic responses to state-wide emergencies. The incident in Los Angeles serves as a stark reminder of the complexities inherent in state-federal partnerships, especially when political differences are pronounced.