Gavin Newsom knows the popular image of him is of a smooth talker with slicked-back hair, the wealthy liberal who co-owns a vineyard.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) is leaning into the redistricting fight as he looks to build his national profile ahead of a potential 2028 bid, but the move comes with political risks. Newsom formally declared his plans at a rally Thursday to call a special election for November that would allow state lawmakers to

Newsom’s eagerness is understandable. At a time when Democrats in California and nationally want more combativeness from their politicians, Newsom is engaging in a personal clash with the 47th president with very high stakes that he claims he can win.