California Gov. Gavin Newsom expressed caution with openness toward expanding the U.S. Supreme Court during an interview on former CNN host Don Lemon’s podcast on Tuesday. Newsom also criticized the Electoral College system, calling it a system that has ‘perverted’ U.S. politics.
In the podcast, Lemon asked Newsom whether he believed the judicial branch needed expansion, a proposal supported by some Democratic figures including former Vice President Kamala Harris. Newsom initially stated his prior opposition to expansion but indicated a shift in perspective.
"My initial instinct — me, a year ago, I would have said no out of concern that it will continue to be expanded," Newsom said. "And I was making a case for the ethical reforms and term limits, 18 years, which I was making a case a year ago. I'm more open to it on the basis of those district court arguments, which are not terrible arguments."
When pressed by Lemon, Newsom clarified his evolving stance: "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 described his position as ‘caution on expanding it, but openness’, while also endorsing term limits for Supreme Court justices as a ‘no-brainer’ reform.
Supreme Court Reform: A Shifting Stance
Newsom’s remarks reflect a broader debate within the Democratic Party about potential structural changes to the federal judiciary. Some Democratic lawmakers and activists have argued that expanding the Supreme Court could counterbalance what they view as partisan appointments. Others, including Newsom a year prior, have expressed concerns that such changes could set a precedent for future expansions regardless of political control.
During the interview, Newsom referenced district court arguments as a factor in his evolving position, though he did not specify which arguments or cases influenced his thinking. He did not commit to full support for expansion but framed his stance as an openness to reconsideration based on new evidence.
Electoral College Criticism: A Call for Constitutional Change
Newsom also criticized the Electoral College system, stating that it has ‘perverted’ U.S. politics. He argued that California, with a population equivalent to 21 states combined, is disproportionately affected by the system, which grants it only two senators and a limited voice in presidential elections.
"California has already been a leader that's already gone out front saying it's time to change that system. Which state's more burdened by it than my state?" Newsom said. "We're the size of 21 state populations combined. Come on. And we have two representatives in the Senate? Come on. And the way that thing favors...it's perverted, I think, our politics."
He framed the U.S. Constitution as a ‘living document’ and suggested it is time to consider amendments to address what he described as systemic inequities in the Electoral College.
Reactions and Broader Context
Newsom’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about judicial reform and election systems in the United States. Some Democratic leaders have proposed expanding the Supreme Court to address what they perceive as an imbalance in judicial appointments, particularly following contentious confirmation battles in recent years. Others advocate for term limits or stricter ethical guidelines for justices.
The Electoral College has long been a subject of debate, with critics arguing it diminishes the voting power of residents in populous states and fails to reflect the national popular vote. Supporters contend it preserves federalism and prevents the dominance of densely populated urban areas in presidential elections.
Newsom did not provide additional details on specific legislative proposals or timelines for potential reforms during the interview.