The travel schedule of California Governor Gavin Newsom is drawing increased scrutiny as details emerge about the amount of time he has spent outside the state during his second term. Since 2023, Newsom has taken 45 out of state trips, totaling 229 days away from California, according to an analysis of his public schedule. That figure amounts to roughly two months per year spent traveling.
Much of that travel has coincided with a promotional tour for his memoir, which has taken him to cities including Miami, New York City, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Boston, Nashville, and Austin. The tour has also included stops in politically significant states such as Nevada and South Carolina, locations often associated with early presidential primary contests.
In 2026 alone, Newsom has spent at least two weeks outside California, combining book promotion with appearances at events such as the South by Southwest festival in Austin. His travel has also extended internationally, with trips to Davos, Switzerland, for a global economic forum, Germany for the Munich Security Conference, and London, where he signed a clean energy agreement with the United Kingdom.
Financial disclosures tied to his political action committee, Campaign for Democracy, show significant spending connected to these travels. So far in 2026, the PAC has reported approximately $136,000 in travel related expenses, along with an additional $58,000 for venue rentals. The largest expense, however, is the reported $1.6 million spent purchasing copies of his own book, which have been distributed to donors.
Records filed with the Federal Election Commission also show spending on hotels and event spaces. Charges include stays at locations such as the Intercontinental in Boston, Le Meridien in New York City, and Four Seasons properties in Las Vegas and Palm Beach. In Atlanta, the PAC spent $16,500 to rent a venue for a book event featuring a conversation with the city’s mayor.
The scale and frequency of the travel have led to criticism from some observers, who argue that Newsom is devoting less attention to governing California. Others note that travel increased broadly after pandemic restrictions eased and point out that some trips involve official state business, economic partnerships, or political activity conducted outside his formal role as governor.
According to his office, Newsom’s schedule includes a mix of official duties, political engagements, and personal travel. In 2026, his trips reportedly include campaign related travel, official state visits, and a smaller number of personal days.
Additional funding for certain international trips has come from external organizations, including a nonprofit connected to the governor’s allies. His office has declined to comment on specific security arrangements or who accompanies him during travel.
