California Governor Gavin Newsom has expressed openness to reforming both the Supreme Court and the Electoral College. During a recent podcast interview with former CNN host Don Lemon, Newsom explored these topics and shared his evolving views.
Supreme Court Reforms
Near the interview’s conclusion, Lemon questioned Newsom, a potential 2028 candidate, on whether the judicial branch should be expanded. This idea has been supported by several Democratic figures, including former Vice President Kamala Harris. A year ago, Newsom would have opposed expansion due to concerns of overextension. However, he now shows more openness, citing district court arguments as impactful.
Newsom stated, “My initial instinct a year ago would have said no out of concern that it will continue to be expanded. I’m more open to it on the basis of those district court arguments.”
When pressed for a definitive answer, Newsom remarked, “I’m finding myself evolving on it.” He remains cautious but acknowledges that reforms like term limits are essential.
Electoral College Criticism
Newsom also criticized the Electoral College, calling it “perverted” U.S. politics. He highlighted that California’s large population is underrepresented in the Senate, urging amendments to the current system.
“California has already gone out front saying it’s time to change that system. We’re the size of 21 state populations combined, and we have two representatives in the Senate? It’s perverted, I think, our politics,” Newsom stated.
Several Democratic figures have advocated for expanding the Supreme Court recently, further reinforcing the topic’s importance.
Additional Comments and Interviews
Although Newsom has not explicitly supported court expansion, he expressed openness to the idea during a June interview with Brian Tyler Cohen, who argued in favor of expansion.
His recent comments coincided with an interview on “PBS NewsHour,” where Newsom spoke on party alignment, noting commonalities with the Democratic Socialists of America on healthcare and climate change. The DSA aims to eliminate the Supreme Court and create a judiciary appointed by Congress.
House Democrats recently rejected a constitutional amendment to limit the number of Supreme Court justices to nine. Rep. Andy Biggs warned of potential consequences if court size changes are made by the reigning party due to rulings.
Newsom’s engagement in these discussions has brought attention to significant political debates on institutional reforms.