Governors from several blue states are gearing up to take both political and legal measures to safeguard their policies and constituents against potential federal actions under President Donald Trump’s new administration.
The preparations by Democratic governors, including a few who are eyeing the 2028 presidential race, mirror the resistance shown during Trump’s initial term and aim to strategically counter his influence as the presidential election approaches. A visual representation of their outlook seems imminent.
In California, Governor Gavin Newsom revealed plans on Thursday for a special legislative session dedicated to “upholding California’s values and fundamental rights in response to the incoming Trump administration.”
In a press release, he explained that this session will address critical issues such as “civil rights, reproductive freedom, environmental action, and enhancing California’s legal framework to support immigrant families.”
Newsom emphasized that the session, set to start on December 2, will implement “prompt measures” to “safeguard California and its principles against any attacks” targeting LGBTQ rights and women’s rights. In collaboration with the state Department of Justice, he intends to “engage in vigorous litigation” to contest any possible missteps by the Trump administration while concurrently defending against anticipated federal lawsuits. He noted that the session would “allocate additional resources” to ensure effective advocacy.
He underscored that this session marks the “first of many initiatives” his administration and Congress will undertake to “fortify California against threats posed by the incoming federal authority.” He added,
“The freedoms we hold dear in California are under siege. We cannot remain passive. We have faced such challenges before, and we know how to respond,” Newsom asserted. “We stand prepared to act decisively to ensure that the people of California receive the support and resources necessary to prosper.”
According to Newsom’s office, the governor is actively seeking ways to “thwart Trump” using state law.
In a lengthy post on Truth Social, Trump referred to Newsom as “Governor Gavin Newcomb,” accusing him of utilizing “fearmongering against President Trump” as a tactic to obstruct the positive changes he aims to implement. He expressed his commitment to “make California great again.”
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, who is also considered a contender for the 2028 Democratic nomination, echoed similar sentiments at a recent press conference. He remarked,
“I want to remind those who aspire to strip freedoms, opportunities, and dignity from Illinois residents that a determined warrior remains a warrior,” asserting, “You come for my people, you come through me.”
Pritzker, whose nonprofit Think Big America has invested millions in safeguarding abortion rights across four states this term, branded Illinois as “a sanctuary for individuals deprived of rights elsewhere,” including those pursuing political asylum and reproductive healthcare, while escaping persecution tied to sexual orientation or gender identity.
He highlighted the achievements of his administration, such as enshrining abortion rights into law and mandating insurance coverage for gender-affirming healthcare.
Pritzker’s chief of staff, Anne Caprara, noted that efforts to counter Trump’s influence in Illinois have been ongoing for several months.
The state is considering enhanced legal protections for women coming to Illinois for reproductive health services, including safeguarding transponder data and medical records from the scrutiny of out-of-state attorneys general.
Furthermore, they are also working on solidifying environmental regulations to maintain labor protections in the event that the Trump administration attempts to revocate clean air and water standards.
“We are actively pursuing Project 2025 to explore every aspect of what the incoming administration might target. Much of this groundwork has been laid already,” Caprara explained.
She also mentioned that collaborative strategies among Midwest states are underway.
“Midwest governors have endured significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, and we have emerged from these trials with valuable lessons,” Caprara shared. “These bonds among Democratic governors have traditionally enabled us to weather the Trump years.”
New York Governor Kathy Hochul similarly launched the Empire State Freedom Initiative this week, intended to address potential “regulatory and policy” hazards linked to the Trump administration.
In coordination with New York State Attorney General Letitia James, the initiative aims to tackle federal legislative matters relating to reproductive rights, immigration, civil rights, gun safety, climate change progress, and environmental justice.
“While I remain dedicated to collaborating on policies that enhance the strength, safety, and livability of our state, my administration will steadfastly defend the core needs of New Yorkers,” Hochul observed, prepared to counter any potential threats.
Hochul stressed that officials are already identifying “potential statutory, regulatory, and fiscal vulnerabilities” informed by Trump’s previous statements and policy proposals. They are now drafting laws, regulations, and appropriations designed to counter any federal initiatives.
Additionally, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey announced plans to utilize “every instrument at our disposal” to “protect our residents” and “uphold democracy and the rule of law” on MSNBC Wednesday.
Having served as state attorney general during Trump’s first term, Healey challenged the administration on immigration policies, asserting that state law would not support Trump’s plans for mass deportations.
When asked about responses from Democratic governors regarding Trump’s return to power, his press secretary, Caroline Leavitt, released a statement: “The American people have re-elected President Trump resoundingly, and he remains committed to fulfilling the promises made on the campaign trail.”
In Pennsylvania, Governor Josh Shapiro, another key figure eyeing 2028, acknowledged the election results and reinforced a message of unity.
“The election is concluded, and it is time to govern. Time to cooperate and reach consensus,” Shapiro expressed. “I believe our commonalities far outweigh our differences, and we must collaborate to achieve progress for Pennsylvania.”
Unlike heavily Democratic states where officials hold significant power, Pennsylvania has a divided Congress, complicating efforts to counter Trump’s actions. Furthermore, Trump’s influence looms large on the national stage.
“Let it be clear: I will never back down from defending the freedoms for which we were elected. We are dedicated to honoring William Penn’s legacy by fostering an inclusive commonwealth,” Shapiro added.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has pledged to oppose Trump if necessary but highlighted the potential for compromise.
“If it contradicts our values, we will fight vigorously,” Murphy stated at a recent news briefing regarding immigration and reproductive issues.
“However, if there is a chance for consensus, we will be the first to embrace it,” he concluded.
