Newsom Defies Trump in Fiery Speech, Aims to Reset Image Amid Los Angeles Riots

California Governor Gavin Newsom is taking a beating from President Donald Trump and his allies, but his recent prime-time address might just be the reset button Democrats are banking on to polish his tarnished image. Speaking after days of riots in Los Angeles, triggered by aggressive immigration raids ordered by the Trump administration, Newsom positioned himself as a defiant leader of the anti-Trump resistance.

With his eyes likely set on a 2028 presidential run, Newsom didn’t mince words, slamming Trump’s decision to deploy over 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 U.S. Marines to Los Angeles streets. “This isn’t just about Los Angeles,” he declared. “This is about democracy itself, under assault before our eyes.” His speech aimed beyond California, rallying a national audience to see the stakes.

Democrats, reeling from last November’s electoral drubbing—losing the White House, Senate, and failing to flip the House—are desperate for a fighter. Newsom’s fiery rhetoric signals he’s ready to lead the charge. “He’s going toe-to-toe with Trump, and the country’s noticing,” said Democratic strategist Maria Cardona. The governor’s legal pushback, alongside California’s attorney general, against Trump’s unprecedented move to federalize the state’s National Guard without consent, underscores his resolve.

Newsom’s boldness peaked when he dared Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, to follow through on threats to arrest him. Political scientist Wayne Lesperance noted, “Newsom has found his voice, propelling him to the forefront of the opposition.” Cardona praised his dual approach: condemning violence while staunchly defending California’s immigrant communities, vital to the state’s economy.

Trump, however, isn’t buying it. On social media, he branded Newsom “incompetent,” claiming Los Angeles would be “burning to the ground” without federal intervention. White House aides piled on, mocking Newsom for technical glitches during his address. The president’s attacks highlight immigration and law enforcement—his strongest issues—putting Democrats on the defensive.

Yet, this clash could be a political lifeline for Newsom, who’s faced backlash from progressives for opposing transgender athletes in girls’ sports and cozying up to MAGA figures like Charlie Kirk and Steve Bannon on his podcast. Trump’s barrage might just solidify Newsom’s standing among Democrats, especially as 2028 hopefuls start circling early-voting states. Lesperance mused, “Ironically, Trump’s attacks may elevate Newsom’s profile among those seeking a fearless candidate.” Whether he can sustain this momentum remains the million-dollar question.