Gavin Newsom sipped wine at Napa fundraiser while anti-ICE protesters plunged L.A. into chaos

California Governor Gavin Newsom was recently spotted enjoying a wine-tasting event at his Odette Estate Winery in Napa Valley, just as violent anti-ICE protests erupted in Los Angeles. The event, known as “Vineyard Vibes,” was held to raise funds for the PlumpJack Foundation, a charity founded by Newsom’s sister. Despite the chaos in LA, Newsom was seen casually sipping wine in a V-neck T-shirt and baseball cap, seemingly unfazed by the riots happening miles away.

A witness at the event expressed shock at Newsom’s nonchalant demeanor, especially considering the escalating violence in downtown Los Angeles. Rioters were throwing Molotov cocktails at law enforcement, setting vehicles on fire, and vandalizing federal buildings with anti-ICE messages. President Trump even had to call in the National Guard to restore order, a move that Newsom criticized as inflaming the situation.

Despite the unrest in LA, Newsom spent at least 90 minutes at the fundraiser, enjoying live jazz music, local pizza, and smash burgers. The event was described as a “perfect kick-off to summer fun,” featuring contemporary wines and a vibrant atmosphere. A spokesperson for the governor’s office clarified that Newsom attended the fundraiser in honor of his late mother, who passed away from breast cancer.

The PlumpJack Foundation, the charity benefiting from the event, focuses on cancer prevention and education, as well as combating poverty. Newsom, a co-founder of Odette Estate Winery, has faced criticism in the past for being out of touch, such as attending a dinner party during the COVID-19 pandemic while advising against socializing.

Despite the controversy surrounding his actions, Newsom remains a prominent figure in California politics and is rumored to be considering a presidential run in 2028. His ongoing feud with President Trump over the deployment of National Guard troops highlights the political tensions between the two leaders. Newsom has apologized for his past missteps and continues to navigate the challenges of governing a state as diverse and complex as California.