Full Breakdown
Concerns Over the 2028 Presidential Election Amid Trump’s Actions
9/26/2025, 6:33:55 AM
Gavin Newsom's Warnings
California Governor Gavin Newsom has raised alarms regarding the potential absence of a presidential election in 2028, attributing his concerns to what he describes as "authoritarian" actions by the Trump administration. During an appearance on “The Late Show” with Stephen Colbert on September 23, 2025, Newsom stated, “I fear that we will not have an election in 2028. I really mean that in the core of my soul – unless we wake up to the code red, what's happening in this country.” His remarks reflect a broader anxiety among some political figures about the state of democracy in the United States.
Trump's Third Term Speculations
Despite the 22nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits any president from serving more than two terms, Donald Trump has hinted at the possibility of a third term. In various interviews, Trump has suggested that there are methods to circumvent this limitation, including scenarios involving Vice President JD Vance. However, he has also stated, “I probably won't run again,” indicating a level of uncertainty about his future political ambitions. Trump's administration has faced criticism for its immigration policies, which Newsom argues exemplify authoritarian governance.
Authoritarian Actions and Immigration Policies
Newsom's concerns are rooted in specific actions taken by the Trump administration, particularly regarding immigration enforcement. Reports indicate that federal agents have conducted arrests in courthouses and other public spaces, raising due process concerns. Newsom criticized these actions as indicative of an authoritarian regime, stating, “These are not just authoritarian tendencies. These are authoritarian actions by an authoritarian government.” He has also taken legislative steps in California to counteract perceived overreach, including a bill prohibiting officials from wearing masks during operations.
Political Reactions and Criticism
The political landscape surrounding these discussions is contentious. White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson dismissed Newsom's fears as “absurd” and a “conspiracy theory.” Meanwhile, Republican figures like Senator Lindsey Graham have expressed support for Trump’s potential candidacy in 2028, despite acknowledging the constitutional barriers. Graham stated, “I hope this never ends,” during a Fox News interview, reflecting a faction within the Republican Party that appears to endorse Trump's continued influence.
Conflicting Perspectives on Trump's Future
While Newsom and other critics express fears about Trump's intentions and the implications for future elections, Trump himself has oscillated between suggesting he might run again and downplaying those ambitions. His supporters, including Graham, continue to advocate for his leadership, complicating the narrative surrounding Trump's political future.
Conclusion
The discourse surrounding the 2028 presidential election is marked by deep divisions and contrasting viewpoints. Newsom's warnings about the erosion of democratic norms stand in stark contrast to the optimism expressed by Trump’s supporters. As the political landscape evolves, the implications of these discussions will likely shape the upcoming electoral cycle and beyond.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I fear that we will not have an election in 2028,” — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
- “And so these are not just authoritarian tendencies. These are authoritarian actions by an authoritarian government.” — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
- “I hope this never ends.” — Lindsey Graham, U.S. Senator from South Carolina
- “I hope he runs again.” — Donald Trump, Former President of the United States
