Overview

• In new interviews, Gavin Newsom says President Trump is interested in a third term despite constitutional limits and points to receiving multiple “Trump 2028” hats from supporters as a sign the idea is circulating.
• Newsom argues Trump may not want another competitive election and warns that loyal officials could be positioned at polling places to favor the president.
• The governor has leaned into AI-driven memes and parody videos to draw attention, posting an image of himself on Mount Rushmore and sharing TikTok skits that mock Trump’s persona.
• His branding push includes a “Make Amerika Gavin Again” slogan and a Patriot Shop selling themed merchandise, with rising follower counts and fan-made content amplifying his profile.
• Analysts question whether the satire-heavy strategy and a California pedigree can translate into national viability, even as Newsom’s term limit in early 2027 lines up with a possible 2028 bid.