California Governor Gavin Newsom is making a bold prediction about President Donald Trump and the upcoming midterm elections — and Republicans are pushing back.
During a recent appearance on the late-night program Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Newsom suggested that Trump’s leadership could become a major factor in the 2026 midterm elections. The Democratic governor argued that Republican candidates may face challenges if voters turn the election into a referendum on the president.
The comments quickly sparked criticism from Republican officials, who accused Newsom of focusing on national political messaging instead of addressing ongoing issues in California.
Newsom Predicts Tough Midterms for Republicans
While speaking with host Jimmy Kimmel, Newsom argued that Democrats must take a more aggressive political approach heading into the midterm elections.
The governor claimed that President Trump’s approval numbers could impact Republican candidates across the country.
“President Trump is historic in many ways — including his level of unpopularity,” Newsom said during the interview. “I believe Republicans are headed for a significant setback in the midterm elections.”
Newsom’s remarks reflect growing Democratic hopes that the upcoming elections could shift the balance of power in Washington.
Political analysts note that midterm elections often present challenges for the party that holds the White House, making them a key battleground for both parties.
Republicans Respond With Sharp Criticism
Republican leaders quickly responded to Newsom’s comments, arguing that the governor should focus more on California’s domestic problems.
Republican National Committee press secretary Kiersten Pels criticized Newsom’s media appearances and defended President Trump’s record.
“Governor Newsom should spend less time on late-night television and more time addressing the challenges facing Californians,” Pels told Fox News Digital.
She added that President Trump has focused on strengthening the economy, national security, and American leadership abroad.
“If Democrats want the midterms to focus on policies similar to those implemented in California, Republicans welcome that debate,” she said.
Redistricting Debate Adds Fuel to the Fight
During the interview, Newsom also criticized Republican efforts to redraw congressional districts in Texas.
Some Republican leaders in Texas have explored mid-decade redistricting proposals that could potentially help the GOP gain additional House seats.
Newsom pointed to California’s own redistricting efforts through Proposition 50 as an example of how Democrats responded politically.
The ballot measure, which voters approved in November, could reshape several congressional districts in California and potentially impact future elections.
Newsom said Democratic organizers raised roughly $120 million during the campaign to support the initiative.
Democrats Hope to Regain the House
Newsom has repeatedly suggested that Democrats could regain control of the House of Representatives if political momentum shifts during the midterm elections.
In a separate interview with MSNBC host Jen Psaki, the California governor predicted Democrats could reclaim the House majority if voter turnout favors the party.
“The presidency as we know it will change significantly if Democrats regain the gavel in the House,” Newsom said during that interview.
Republicans, however, remain confident heading into the midterms, pointing to strong voter support in many key states.
2028 Presidential Speculation Grows
Newsom’s high-profile media appearances have also fueled speculation about his own political ambitions.
The governor recently promoted his book, Young Man in a Hurry, which has sparked renewed discussion about a potential presidential run in 2028.
Newsom previously told CBS News that he would seriously consider a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
“I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t something I’ve thought about,” he said.
For now, Newsom appears focused on positioning himself as one of the most visible Democratic voices criticizing President Trump ahead of the next major election cycle.