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Bessent Slams Newsom Over 'Kneepads' Comments on Podcast

1/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom on the Ruthless Podcast.
Bessent referenced Newsom's 'kneepads' comments, which imply leaders bow to U.S. President Donald Trump.
Bessent mocked Newsom, joking about Newsom's time as mayor of San Francisco and about kneepads sold with Trump's signature.
The feud began when Newsom called Bessent "smug," and Bessent answered by labeling Newsom "economically illiterate."

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Story summary

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom on the Ruthless Podcast.
Bessent referenced Newsom's 'kneepads' comments, which imply leaders bow to U.S. President Donald Trump.
Bessent mocked Newsom, joking about Newsom's time as mayor of San Francisco and about kneepads sold with Trump's signature.
The feud began when Newsom called Bessent "smug," and Bessent answered by labeling Newsom "economically illiterate."