California Governor’s Views on Supreme Court and Electoral College

California Governor Gavin Newsom recently shared his thoughts on reforming the Supreme Court and the Electoral College during an interview with former CNN host Don Lemon on his podcast. Newsom stated his openness to potential changes, sparking discussions among political circles.

Supreme Court Reform

Near the end of the interview, Lemon asked Newsom if he believed the judicial branch should be expanded. Newsom, who has previously been hesitant about such reforms, indicated a shift in his stance. He expressed newfound openness based on district court arguments, although he emphasized caution.

“I’m finding myself evolving on it. I normally have very clear conviction on things. I’ve been open to argument and interested in the evidence on this,” Newsom explained, showing a willingness to engage with the idea.

Newsom mentioned his support for reforms like term limits, describing them as a “no-brainer,” while maintaining a careful approach to expanding the court.

Views on Electoral College

Newsom voiced criticism of the Electoral College, asserting it distorts U.S. politics. He emphasized California’s position as a leader in advocating for change, highlighting how the system disadvantages larger states like his own.

“California has already been a leader that’s already gone out front saying it’s time to change that system,” Newsom remarked. He underscored the imbalance with California’s size compared to its Senate representation.

Newsom advocated for amending what he called a “living document,” suggesting that changes to the Constitution regarding the Electoral College are timely.

Related Political Discussions

Though Newsom hasn’t explicitly endorsed expanding the Supreme Court, he has shown openness in recent interviews, including one with Brian Tyler Cohen, where he expressed willingness to consider arguments favoring court expansion.

Additionally, during a ‘PBS NewsHour’ interview, Newsom aligned Democratic goals with those of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) on issues like universal healthcare and climate change. The DSA aims to replace the Supreme Court with a Congressional-selected judiciary.

House Democrats recently opposed a constitutional amendment that sought to cap Supreme Court justices at nine, introduced by Rep. Andy Biggs. Biggs warned against the ramifications of changing the court size based on political preferences.