Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Call for 25th Amendment Sparks Debate

California Governor Gavin Newsom sparked significant online debate on Thursday evening with his suggestion that the 25th Amendment be invoked to remove President Donald Trump due to perceived cognitive impairment. This came as a response to Trump’s speech about election integrity.

Newsom remarked that Trump’s speech was a sign of a tangible 25th Amendment moment, likening it to ‘the rambling of a mad king.’ This comment reflects ongoing Democratic concerns regarding Trump’s cognitive abilities. However, it also raised questions about Democrats’ previous indifference concerning similar issues with former President Joe Biden.

The 25th Amendment, implemented in 1967, enables the Cabinet to declare the president unfit for duty or allows Congress to form an independent body to decide this matter.

Some critics argue that the case for invoking the 25th Amendment was stronger during Biden’s term. The official Republican National Committee account criticized Newsom, referencing GOP concerns about Biden’s mental fitness during his presidency.

Fox News contributor Joe Concha pointed out Newsom’s previous defense of Biden, questioning the consistency of criticisms aimed at Trump.

Tom Fitton of Judicial Watch commented on Newsom’s call, relating Trump’s speech about potential election vulnerabilities and foreign interference, particularly by China. Trump’s claims included accusations of foreign data theft and long-known election security risks.

Fox News Digital couldn’t verify the documents disclosed by Trump’s administration. Like many Democrats, Newsom questioned Trump’s motives, especially with the midterm elections approaching.

Democratic influencer Harry Sisson supported Newsom, describing Trump as unfit and mentally unstable. Rep. Yassamin Ansari, among others, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for the 25th Amendment under the circumstances.

This isn’t Ansari’s first call for the 25th Amendment. She previously joined other Democrats to push for a congressional review of presidential cognitive health involving past presidents and experts.

Newsom’s team did not comment on whether he would support a bill by Ansari for reviewing presidential cognitive state.

On the conservative side, some caution against the potential disruption of invoking the 25th Amendment, noting the implications for U.S. governance.

Assemblyman Joe Patterson questioned the logic of removing a duly elected president while addressing election rigging, highlighting concerns over democratic stability.

Reporter Leo Briceno provided coverage for Fox News Digital, having previously worked with World Magazine.