Newsom calls for ‘declaration of election independence’, says Trump is ‘afraid’ of voters

WASHINGTON, DC: California Governor Gavin Newsom used the nation's 250th Independence Day celebrations to deliver a political address centered on voting rights and democratic institutions, calling for what he described as a "declaration of election independence" while criticizing President Donald Trump ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

In a video statement posted on social media, Newsom said the country's founding principle that governments derive "their just powers from the consent of the governed" remains central to American democracy, arguing that protecting elections is essential as voters prepare to head to the polls in the coming months.

Newsom calls for freedom from 'election manipulators and deniers'

Newsom framed his remarks around the Declaration of Independence, describing its assertion that governments derive "their just powers from the consent of the governed" as the idea that made America possible.

He argued that the principle remains central to democracy because "what separates a democracy from a monarchy, from a dictatorship, is the fundamental right to vote."

Newsom proposed what he called a "declaration of election independence," saying it should ensure "freedom from election manipulators and deniers," "freedom from the militarization of Election Day," and "freedom from the fear of imprisonment if you don't go along with Trump's schemes."

Referring to the upcoming midterm elections, Newsom said Trump understood "exactly what's coming. And because he knows that, he's afraid. Afraid for himself, a man like Trump does not lose gracefully. He grabs every lever of power within reach. He cheats. He lies. He steals to hold on."

Newsom also referenced Trump's efforts following the 2020 presidential election, citing the former president's call to Georgia's secretary of state and the events surrounding January 6, 2021, as examples of actions he said demonstrated attempts to overturn election results.

He further alleged there had been efforts to influence election administration and criticized federal actions involving California's National Guard, describing them as part of what he called a broader test of presidential authority.

Newsom warns ballot interference in California will be prosecuted

Newsom said the state would continue pursuing legal measures aimed at protecting elections. "If you violate California's laws, if you interfere with our voters, tamper with our ballots, or meddle in our election, you will be prosecuted," Newsom said. 

The governor announced he was moving forward with legislation that would make it a felony to seize ballots before vote certification by state and county officials, saying California would use "every power, every lawyer, every law, every ounce of will" to defend its election process.

The comments follow Trump's criticism of California's primary election in June, when he claimed the state's primary vote count was delayed because "they're rigging the election," comparing the state's system to "crooked third-world elections."

Newsom concluded his Independence Day address by urging Americans to remain engaged in the democratic process, saying "our freedom is guarded by you, when you vote, when you show up."