Gavin Newsom swiftly retaliated against Donald Trump following the president’s terse critique of California’s election system, dismissing it with just five words as the primary election approached.
In a conversation with his daughter-in-law Lara Trump on Fox News, the president declared, “California elections are a fraud,” reiterating his disapproval of the state’s voting methods.
Trump further asserted that eradicating election fraud across the nation could resolve fiscal issues while echoing his persistent grievances about California’s voting practices.
Newsom’s office promptly responded to the comments with a stark retort. “No,” Newsom countered in a post on X from the governor’s press office account. “You’re just a loser.”
This exchange represents the latest episode in the ongoing discord between the Democratic governor, who is contemplating a 2028 presidential bid, and the Republican president. The two have often clashed on topics ranging from immigration and wildfire management to voting rights and election processes.
During the interview, Trump claimed that California is devoid of voting booths and alleged the state conducts its voting exclusively by mail.
He also repeated his assertion that mail-in voting is “rigged” and suggested the state should abandon the practice.
Lara Trump echoed the criticism, describing California as “wonky” during the discussion.
Newsom responded with another social media post accusing the president of spreading misinformation about the election process as Californians prepare to cast ballots.
“Trump is actively lying to Americans. Again,” Newsom warned on X. “This time it’s to keep you from voting. Don’t believe him.”
The political clash comes just days before California voters head to the polls in the state’s primary election, with voting already underway.
Trump has recently weighed in on several high-profile California races.
The president has praised mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt, the reality television personality seeking to lead Los Angeles despite having no prior political experience.
Trump has also endorsed former Fox News commentator Steve Hilton in the race for governor, although he acknowledged uncertainty about whether a Republican can capture statewide office in heavily Democratic California.
The dispute over election integrity follows action taken by Newsom earlier this week to strengthen protections around the state’s election system.
The governor signed legislation designed to prevent federal interference in California elections, describing the measure as a safeguard against what he characterized as growing concerns over potential federal actions targeting Democratic-led states and cities.
“I expect the worst with Trump because he’s done the worst,” Newsom said at a news conference discussing the legislation.
