AFP-NH Slams Newsom Visit: New Hampshire Doesn’t Want California Politics

Mar 5, 2026 by AFP

Concord, NH — Today, Americans for Prosperity-New Hampshire (AFP-NH) pushed back on California Governor Gavin Newsom’s visit to the Granite State during his book tour as he looks to expand his profile beyond California.

California ranks 48th in the 2026 State Tax Competitiveness Index, placing it among the worst tax environments in the country, compared to New Hampshire, which ranks third nationally.

AFP-NH Deputy Sarah Scott released the following statement:

“As Gavin Newsom tests the waters for his future ambitions in New Hampshire during his book tour, Granite Staters have no interest in importing the policies that continue to drive families and businesses out of California. At a time when California ranks amongst the worst states in the country for tax competitiveness and economic climate, the governor should focus on addressing the continued exodus of residents leaving for states like the Granite State.

“New Hampshire thrives because we take the opposite approach–low taxes, limited government, and a promise to keep life affordable to ensure residents can live free and prosper. The Granite State continues to attract families and businesses due to our no-income tax, no-sales tax, and limited regulations that promote growth, not hinder it. Instead of bringing California’s problems to the Granite State, the governor would be better served by taking New Hampshire’s proven policies back home to fix the challenges he created.

“Meanwhile, Governor Newsom continues to double down on costly, unrealistic projects like California’s high-speed rail boondoggle that the state has poured millions into and has no clear completion date. Whereas in New Hampshire, we focus on policies that deliver value while not running up the bill for taxpayers.

“This is not the future New Hampshire wants. While the governor is welcome to visit our free state, Granite Staters remain united in rejecting the high-tax, high-cost policies he champions.”