California Gov. Gavin Newsom sounded alarms over the future of American democracy during a Sept. 23 appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
He expressed deep concern that there may not be a presidential election in 2028, citing what he called “authoritarian actions” by the Trump administration.
“I fear that we will not have an election in 2028,” Newsom said. “I really mean that in the core of my soul − unless we wake up to the code red, what’s happening in this country.”
Immigration Crackdown Criticism
Newsom’s remarks came as federal immigration enforcement has intensified nationwide. Reports from NBC News detailed arrests of immigrants in courthouses and other public spaces, sometimes resulting in immigration judges dropping active cases. Critics argue this accelerates deportations and undermines due process.
In response, Newsom signed a bill prohibiting federal and local officials from wearing masks during enforcement operations, warning that masked, unmarked arrests resemble tactics of authoritarian regimes.
White House Response
White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson dismissed Newsom’s comments as “absurd” and a “conspiracy theory.” Trump himself has stated he “probably” won’t seek a third term in 2028, in line with the constitutional two-term limit.
Instead, he has floated Sen. J.D. Vance as a potential heir to the MAGA movement, though Vance has called 2028 speculation premature.
Redistricting Battles
Beyond immigration, Newsom accused Trump of backing a Texas redistricting plan designed to expand Republican representation by up to five seats in the 2026 midterms. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed the map into law in August.
Newsom is countering with his own California redistricting initiative, which could yield Democrats as many as five additional congressional seats. Voters will decide on the measure in November.
Previous Warnings from Newsom
This is not the first time Newsom has voiced concern about Trump overstaying constitutional limits. In an Aug. 27 Politico interview, he claimed Trump may seek to remain in office beyond two terms and even use federal agents to manipulate elections.
“I don’t think Donald Trump wants another election,” he said, adding he has received multiple Trump 2028 campaign hats from supporters.
