Overview

• Speaking in Sacramento, Gavin Newsom said European heads of government "laugh behind" Donald Trump’s back, rejecting Trump’s boast that NATO leaders call him the "president of Europe."
• In comments reported by Politico, Newsom warned Trump is "seriously" interested in a constitutionally barred third term, noting he has received "Trump 2028" hats and saying he believes Trump does not want another election.
• Newsom amplified doubts about Trump’s cognitive fitness by asking X’s Grok whether repeating false claims can indicate dementia and by reposting a clip of Trump reiterating a false wildfire-related claim about California.
• His online campaign features AI-generated images, parody posts and "Make America Gavin Again" merchandise, which have drawn new followers and reinforced his anti-Trump brand.
• Political analysts remain skeptical of Newsom’s national viability, citing his California profile and concerns that a trolling-heavy strategy may not convey seriousness, as the feud has deepened through clashes over a June National Guard deployment and a proposed California redistricting move.