Published on: Thu, 28 May 2026 20:42:06 GMT
Original Story: Newsom vows California will impose 100% tax on Trump’s $1.8 billion ‘Anti-Weaponization Fund’ – ABC7 Los Angeles

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Newsom’s Tax: Trump’s “Fund” Gets Zapped!

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because California’s Governor Newsom just threw down the gauntlet (again), promising to slap a 100% tax on any “Anti-Weaponization Fund” that Trump might be cooking up with his newfound $1.8 billion windfall. Yes, you read that right. One hundred percent. As in, *poof*, gone. Like my motivation on a Monday morning.

The “Anti-Weaponization Fund”: What IS That Anyway?

Let’s be real, the name alone screams “weaponized rhetoric.” Apparently, Trump’s looking to use this pile of cash—presumably from selling Trump-branded NFTs of himself wearing a superhero cape or something equally ridiculous—to, allegedly, fight back against political persecution. You know, the kind that usually involves actual evidence and due process. *Eye roll.*

Newsom, ever the drama queen (and I say that with a hint of begrudging respect), isn’t having any of it. He sees this “fund” for what it likely is: a slush fund for Trump’s legal battles and maybe a down payment on a golden toilet for Mar-a-Lago. So, he’s dusting off California’s tax code and preparing to make it rain… taxes, that is.

Newsom: Taxman Extraordinaire

California’s tax laws are already more convoluted than a season of *Lost*, but Newsom’s making it clear that he’s willing to get creative to make Trump’s life a little more… taxing. The legal basis? Well, that’s where things get interesting. It’s likely to revolve around California’s ability to tax income derived from activities within the state. If Trump’s fund is used for activities that benefit him or his businesses in California, Newsom argues, the state has a right to take its cut. A very large cut.

But Does He Have the Legal Authority?

Ah, the million-dollar (or should I say, billion-dollar?) question. Legal challenges are practically guaranteed. Trump’s lawyers are probably already sharpening their claws and dusting off their copies of *The Art of the Deal*. This will likely end up in court, with both sides arguing about the nuances of tax law until we’re all old and gray. But hey, at least it’ll keep the lawyers employed, right?

Trump’s Tariff Tango: A Contradiction in Terms

The irony here is thicker than Trump’s fake tan. Remember back in 2018, when Trump was all about tariffs, slapping them on everything from steel to aluminum? He claimed it was all about protecting American jobs and bringing back manufacturing. Yet, here he is, seemingly trying to shield a massive sum of money from California’s taxman. Where’s the “America First” spirit now, Donald? Seems awfully selective. He was all about using economic levers to shape policy then, but now that the lever is being used against him, it’s suddenly unfair? Color me shocked. SHOCKED I say!

The inconsistency is almost breathtaking. He championed using tariffs to influence global trade, arguing it was a legitimate tool of economic policy. Now, Newsom is essentially employing a similar tactic, using California’s tax code to make a political statement and potentially hinder Trump’s activities. Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.

The Bigger Picture: A Political Chess Match

This isn’t just about taxes; it’s about political signaling. Newsom is sending a clear message to Trump and his supporters: California is not messing around. He’s positioning himself as the anti-Trump, the guy willing to fight fire with fire (or, in this case, taxes with taxes). It’s a bold move, and one that’s sure to rile up Trump’s base even further. But hey, gotta keep those engagement numbers up, right?

It also raises questions about the future of state-federal relations. Will other states follow California’s lead and start using their tax codes to target political opponents? Could we see a wave of retaliatory tax measures across the country? The possibilities are, shall we say, concerning.

Snarky Takeaway

So, what’s the takeaway from all this? Well, aside from the fact that tax law makes my brain hurt, it’s this: Politics is a messy business, and sometimes the best way to fight back is to hit your opponent where it hurts – their wallet. Whether Newsom’s tax gambit will actually work remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: it’s going to be entertaining to watch. Grab your popcorn, folks, because this is going to be a long and litigious ride.

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