Full Breakdown
Gavin Newsom Critiques Fox News Over "War on Christmas" Rhetoric
12/15/2025, 7:43:28 AM
Context of the Dispute
California Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly criticized Fox News for what he perceives as a "war on Christmas." This critique was sparked by comments made on the network's show, *The Big Money Show*, where host Dagen McDowell suggested that land currently used for Christmas tree farms should be repurposed for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure. The specific case involved Gaver Farm in Mount Airy, Maryland, which is opposing a proposed energy project that would run transmission lines through its property to support AI data centers in Northern Virginia.
The Exchange on Fox Business
During the segment, McDowell stated, “You know what? Buy a fake tree,” implying that the land used for Christmas trees could be better utilized for economic development related to AI. She argued that the power lines are essential for "the growth and development of business," as well as for "grid stability" and lower energy costs. This remark was met with disapproval from her co-hosts, with Brian Brenberg expressing that it felt like "a dagger right in my heart."
Newsom's Response
In response to the segment, Newsom reposted the clip on his X account, questioning, “Why is Fox News starting a war on Christmas?” He framed his comments as a continuation of a narrative he has previously used, including a mention on NBC's *Meet the Press*, where he linked President Donald Trump's tariffs to a "war on Christmas" affecting working families.
Broader Implications of AI Infrastructure
The discussion surrounding AI data centers has become increasingly contentious due to their significant energy consumption, which contributes to rising electricity costs for households nationwide. Newsom has criticized Trump's policies regarding AI and energy, arguing that they favor tech and fossil-fuel interests at the expense of communities facing higher power bills and land-use conflicts. Recently, Trump signed an executive order that centralizes AI oversight under federal authority, limiting states' regulatory powers.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the proposed energy project, including local farmers and environmental advocates, argue that the conversion of agricultural land for AI infrastructure poses a threat to local economies and traditional farming practices. Fox contributor Liz Peek expressed skepticism about the motivations behind the push for AI infrastructure, suggesting it could be part of a broader narrative against AI development.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Why is Fox News starting a war on Christmas?” — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
- “You know what? Buy a fake tree.” — Dagen McDowell, Fox Business Host
- “A dagger right in my heart.” — Brian Brenberg, Fox Business Co-host
- “I’m doubly suspicious that this is part of the narrative hitting back against AI, hitting back against the construction of data centers, which is probably the best economic power we have right now,” — Liz Peek, Fox Contributor
Conclusion
The exchange between Newsom and Fox News highlights the ongoing debate over land use and energy policy in the context of rapid technological advancement. As AI infrastructure continues to expand, the implications for traditional industries and local economies remain a critical point of contention.
