Golf icon Phil Mickelson has once again stepped into the political arena, using his social media platform to launch a sharp critique against his home state of California. The three-time Masters champion, known for his candid opinions as much as his golf game, took aim at what he describes as widespread fraud and the state's proposed tax plans.
Mickelson's Social Media Critique
In a series of posts on the platform X on January 1, 2026, Mickelson responded to discussions about a proposed billionaire's tax in California. He argued that the state should prioritize addressing fraud before implementing new taxes. "No amount of tax can help CA (California) until the fraud problem gets fixed. CA fraud makes MN (Minnesota) look like amateurs," Mickelson wrote.
He further elaborated in another post, stating, "Instead of stopping the fraud and theft and getting back the money, the plan is more taxes for already the highest taxed citizens in the country." The golfer, who has become a prominent figure for the Saudi-backed LIV Golf tour, also responded to a local news opinion piece, suggesting, "How about no new taxes until government gets rid of fraud. Until that happens more taxes will only fund more fraud."
Political Implications and Trump's Comments
Mickelson's commentary extended into the political sphere, where he suggested that cracking down on fraud, illegal immigration, and voter fraud could have significant electoral consequences for Democrats in California. "The dilemma for all Democrats is if you stop the fraud, illegal immigration, and voter fraud in CA, then Republicans win CA and have a huge majority throughout the country. The Democrat party all but ends," he posted.
His remarks echoed comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump. During a New Year's Eve event and in a subsequent Truth Social post, Trump claimed fraud in California, New York, and Illinois was worse than recently uncovered welfare fraud in Minnesota. "There is more FRAUD in California than there is in Minnesota, if that is even possible. When you add in Election Fraud, then they are tied for first. Two Crooked Governors, two Crooked States!" Trump wrote, referencing California Governor Gavin Newsom and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
Official Response from California
Governor Gavin Newsom's office issued a forceful rebuttal to Trump's allegations on X. The statement called Trump a "deranged, habitual liar" and defended the administration's record. "Meanwhile — in the actual world where adults govern — Gavin Newsom has been cleaning house. Since taking office, he’s blocked over $125 BILLION in fraud, arrested criminal parasites leaching off of taxpayers, and protected taxpayers from the exact kind of scam artists Trump celebrates, excuses, and pardons," the statement read.
The exchange highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding governance, taxation, and fraud enforcement, with a high-profile sports figure like Mickelson adding his voice to the national conversation. His comments have sparked discussion among both golf fans and political observers, underscoring his role as an outspoken personality beyond the fairways.
