Newsom Finds Himself In A Tricky Political Spot
California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) is pushing a risky political move that could backfire badly — and it’s all part of his plan to raise his national profile ahead of a likely 2028 White House run.
At a Thursday rally, Newsom announced he will call a special election in November that would let state lawmakers rewrite California’s congressional map. The move comes after President Donald Trump encouraged Republican-led states to redraw their districts, sparking a national redistricting showdown.
But while Newsom tries to posture as Trump’s top critic, many say this is nothing more than a Democrat power grab — one that could cost him his career.
Californians Don’t Want Politicians Rigging the Map
A new statewide poll shows that 64% of Californians support keeping the independent redistricting commission in charge, not Sacramento politicians. That includes 72% of independents, 66% of Republicans, and even 61% of Democrats.
Former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) blasted Newsom’s plan, posting a picture in a “Terminate Gerrymandering” shirt and vowing to campaign against it.
“This is a gigantic roll of the dice, with national implications,” admitted Democratic strategist Steven Maviglio. “If it fails, that’s the end of his career.”
Critics Say Newsom Is Focused on Washington, Not California
Republicans argue that instead of playing political games, Newsom should be fixing California’s real problems:
- Soaring grocery prices
- Homeless camps flooding city streets
- Families losing homes to wildfires
- Crime devastating communities
“Newsom is focused only on himself,” said GOP strategist Tab Berg. “He’s running for president. He wants to be the anti-Trump candidate.”
A Risky Gamble With National Consequences
If Democrats push this plan through, it could give them as many as five extra House seats. But if voters reject it, Newsom’s presidential dreams could collapse overnight.
Political experts warn that voters don’t want California politicians disenfranchising them just because Texas is redrawing its map. That resentment could spark a backlash that hurts Democrats nationwide.
The Bottom Line
Gavin Newsom is risking everything on a partisan power grab. He’s betting his future on undermining an independent commission that Californians trust — all so he can burnish his credentials as the Democrat who takes on Trump.
But if this gamble fails, it won’t just derail his White House ambitions. It could end his political career for good.
