California Gov. Gavin Newsom claimed President Donald Trump would try to steal the upcoming election. Speaking with Jimmy Kimmel, he outlined plans to monitor Justice Department election observers and oversee California’s vote count. His remarks drew criticism from people who questioned his allegations and challenged Democrats’ approach to election security.
During the interview, Newsom declared, “No question in my mind he’s going to try to steal this election.” When Kimmel asked whether people could volunteer, the governor said his team already had 1,000 volunteers. He added that they had been conducting tabletop exercises to prepare for the election.
Beyond the volunteers, he outlined plans to deploy 134 election law attorneys and strike teams. He also announced an 877-321-VOTE hotline, with 54 operators assigned to receive reports of potential problems in real time. “We’re not screwing around, nor is he,” Newsom said. He pledged to monitor the vote count until election officials counted and certified every ballot.
Gavin Newsom Faces Backlash Over Trump Election Fraud Claims
Newsom’s warning sparked a dispute over election security on X, with critics questioning his allegations and others defending his preparations.
“Why do you lie? Trump wanted honest elections,” one user wrote.
Another demanded evidence, asking, “How is Trump, pretty boy, laying ground to undermine this election? Give us examples, if you can.”
The criticism also turned toward voter identification requirements. One person argued, “If you actually cared about election security, you would be supporting Voter ID.”
Others questioned his objections to federal election observers. “Kind of odd that you have a problem with something that both sides have done for years? Election monitors are legal Gavin, always have been,” another response stated.
However, some defended the governor’s preparations. “No, he is laying the groundwork to prevent any further election undermining,” one user wrote.
Another supported heightened vigilance, stating, “Yes. We must be vigilant against the schemes of Trump and his allies. Democracy must be defended at the ballot box and beyond.”
It remains uncertain whether Newsom’s monitoring efforts will identify any election irregularities ahead of the vote.
