California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed a willingness to consider reforms to the Supreme Court while critiquing the Electoral College. This discussion took place during an interview with former CNN host Don Lemon on a recent podcast episode.

Supreme Court Expansion

Lemon questioned Newsom about his stance on expanding the judicial branch, a topic some Democratic figures, including former Vice President Kamala Harris, have advocated. Newsom, previously against expansion due to potential continuous enlargement, indicated he is now more receptive. He highlighted ethical reforms and proposed 18-year term limits as other considerations.

“My initial instinct…was no out of concern that it will continue to be expanded,” said Newsom. “I’m more open to it on the basis of those district court arguments…”

When pressed by Lemon for clarity, Newsom expressed an evolving perspective, describing himself as open to arguments and evidence, yet remaining cautious about expansion. He emphasized support for term limits as a logical step.

Critique of the Electoral College

Newsom criticized the Electoral College, arguing it distorts U.S. politics. He pointed out that the system imposes disproportionate burdens on larger states like California, which has a population equivalent to 21 smaller states yet possesses only two Senate representatives.

“The Constitution is a living document,” Newsom stated, “and it was conceived to be amended…it’s time to make that amendment.”

Several Democratic leaders have increasingly supported Supreme Court expansion, citing precedent set by recent controversial judicial appointments. Despite not explicitly endorsing expansion, Newsom has previously shown openness to the idea, notably in a podcast interview with Brian Tyler Cohen.

Democratic Party Alignment

During a recent interview with “PBS NewsHour,” Newsom discussed alignment between the Democratic Party and the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) on key issues such as universal healthcare and climate change. Notably, the DSA advocates for eliminating the Supreme Court in favor of a Congress-selected judiciary.

Recent actions in Congress reflected this debate, as House Democrats voted down a proposed constitutional amendment to cap Supreme Court justices at nine. Rep. Andy Biggs of Arizona, who proposed the amendment, warned about the challenges posed by adjusting court size based on ruling opposition.