Democratic governors are signaling their readiness to resist the new Trump administration, pledging to protect their states’ freedoms and engage in legal and political battles should the president-elect pursue his controversial proposals.
California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed the state’s determination to fight, calling for a special legislative session after Trump’s victory.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker also vowed strong resistance, stating, “If you come for my people, you come through me.” Meanwhile, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey promised that her state’s law enforcement would not cooperate with any mass deportation plans the Trump administration might implement.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker boldly commits to defending state residents
These statements from Democratic governors, some of whom may be eyeing future presidential bids, echo the confrontations that occurred during Trump’s first term. Their declarations highlight a long-term campaign to take on Trump both locally and nationally.
Political experts suggest that another term for Trump would likely see Democrats pushing back at every opportunity. Jesse Rhodes, a professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, noted that with Republicans controlling Congress, the burden of resistance would fall on Democratic governors.
Trump’s win, which saw him capture key swing states and expand his margin in some traditionally red areas, further strengthened Republican control in Washington. The GOP is set to hold a trifecta with control of the Senate and a likely slim majority in the House.
The results of governor races largely followed party lines, with both parties retaining control of their respective seats. Democratic governors had rallied behind Vice President Harris during her swift presidential bid.
Newsom and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro were considered as potential running mates for Harris, though she finally chose Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Governors from critical swing states, such as Shapiro, Michigan’s Gretchen Whitmer, and Wisconsin’s Tony Evers, supported Harris on the campaign trail.
As the transfer of power approaches, top Democratic leaders in blue states are preparing to resist a second Trump term. During Trump’s first term, Democratic governors stood firm against his policies, including his travel bans, pandemic response, and actions during the 2020 protests.
Barry Rabe, a public policy professor at the University of Michigan, explained that states led by the opposition party often play a vital role in pushing back against the president, particularly when Congress is unable to pass legislation.
Democratic-led states, along with their attorneys general, are expected to be key points of opposition as Trump pursues his ambitious Day-One plans in areas like immigration, energy, and foreign policy.
Pritzker expressed confidence that Illinois would remain a stable and competent place under his leadership, regardless of Trump’s policies. Healey firmly rejected any cooperation with the Trump administration’s potential mass deportation efforts, emphasizing her commitment to protecting citizens and upholding the rule of law.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy made a strong declaration, stating his state would fight “to the death” against any policies that contradict their values. He also remarked that governors have never mattered more in the current political climate.
In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has assembled a team of experts to devise strategies for defending the state’s progressive policies from potential threats under a second Trump term. Her task force will address critical issues like reproductive rights, civil rights, immigration, and the environment.
Washington state’s Attorney General Bob Ferguson, who won his gubernatorial race, assured reporters that his office is prepared to defend the state’s freedoms as the White House transitions.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey pledges non-cooperation on deportation plans
In California, Newsom emphasized the potential immediate consequences of a Trump presidency for the state and called for legislation to safeguard progressive policies. His office revealed plans to “Trump-proof” state laws.
Trump quickly responded with a post on Truth Social, criticizing Newsom for trying to “KILL” California and prevent beneficial actions. The conflict between blue-state governors and the incoming president is expected to be a major battle in the coming years, with California likely at the center.
Newsom, who has been seen as a prominent Democratic figure with national ambitions, along with other governors like Whitmer and Shapiro, has been speculated as a potential 2028 presidential contender. Strategists from both parties agree that opposing Trump could position these governors for future success.
Republican strategist Ford O’Connell suggested that Democratic governors are using Trump as a foil to further their political ambitions, though he doubted that resistance would resonate with voters by 2028 when Trump will no longer be eligible to run. Democratic strategist Hank Sheinkopf raised concerns that Trump may retaliate against these governors, given the potential for a GOP trifecta in Washington.
Meghan Meehan-Draper, executive director of the Democratic Governors Association, emphasized that Democratic governors are essential in defending fundamental freedoms and democracy, especially with the potential return of the extremism Trump promised during his campaigns.
