Newsom, a first-term governor and former San Francisco mayor, is fighting for his political future in only the second recall election for governor in state history despite 55 attempts. The campaign to oust the Democratic governor began with a conservative Republican group and gained steam during the pandemic. Recall also could mean the end of Newsom's political ambitions, widely believed to include possible runs for the U.S. Senate or the presidency. If more than 50% of voters agree Newsom should be recalled, their answers to a second ballot question will decide who becomes the state's next governor. For days leading up to California's recall election, Trump said it also would be "rigged" against Republicans.
