Categories: Presidential Election

Newsom and the 12th Amendment: What You Need to Know

Did you know California has 55 electoral votes, the most of any state? This is key as we examine the 12th Amendment’s role in politics. It’s especially important with Governor Gavin Newsom possibly running for president in 2024¹. The 12th Amendment, passed in 1804, changed how we choose our President and Vice President. It makes sure electors vote for each separately¹.

Newsom’s plans and the electoral system are closely tied. This is something we need to understand better.

Newsom might run with Vice President Kamala Harris, raising questions about living in California and campaign strategies². Both leaders are from California. This could highlight how being close to each other might affect their campaign².

Party insiders are worried about Harris’s run. Newsom’s growing fame could add an interesting twist to the election².

This article will dive into the 12th Amendment Newsom. We’ll see how it might affect Newsom’s future and California politics. It will also look at its role in the 2024 presidential race.

Understanding the 12th Amendment

The 12th amendment is key in shaping US elections. It clarifies how the President and Vice President are elected. This change was made to meet the nation’s growing needs after its founding.

Historical Context and Purpose

Ratified in 1804, the 12th amendment fixed early election problems. The Constitution’s original structure caused issues in choosing a leader. So, a new process was needed.

This amendment requires separate votes for President and Vice President. It also stops electors from voting for two from the same state. This keeps the electoral college fair and honest.

Key Provisions of the Amendment

The 12th amendment makes elections simpler and avoids conflicts. It says electors can’t vote for both a presidential and vice-presidential candidate from their state. This rule is crucial for fair competition in the electoral college.

Impact on Presidential Elections

The 12th amendment greatly affects presidential elections. States like California, with 54 electoral votes, are especially important. The last Republican to win California was in 1988, showing the state’s lean towards Democrats³.

Experts warn that having two candidates from California could risk vital votes. This creates a strategic problem that needs solving⁴. Past moves, like Dick Cheney’s, show the complexities the 12th amendment brings. If he decides to endorse a candidate, it could change the dynamics of the election. Newsom and Harris run together as a potential Democratic ticket, it could lead to more challenges.³.

12th Amendment Newsom

The 12th Amendment’s impact on Gavin Newsom’s vice presidential bid is fascinating. Kamala Harris is registered to vote in California, making it hard for them to run together. This is because they share the same state residency.

Potential Implications for Newsom’s Candidacy

The 12th Amendment, ratified in 1804, states electors can’t vote for a ticket with both nominees from the same state⁵. If Kamala Harris If Kamala Harris runs for president, California’s electors will have to choose between her and Newsom on the ballot for president and vice-president. This could hurt their chances of winning⁶. Newsom faces a tough time as a vice presidential candidate because of this.

Electoral College Rules Concerning State Residency

The Electoral College is key in the election, especially with California’s 54 electoral votes⁶. The 12th Amendment says electors can’t vote for candidates from the same state. This means a president and vice president can’t both be from California if Newsom and Harris are nominated⁵. This rule could greatly affect their campaign strategies.

The Harris-Newsom Ticket Scenario

As the Democratic National Convention 2024 approaches, the chance of a Harris-Newsom ticket is uncertain⁶. Harris is considering a shortlist of vice-presidential candidates, making Newsom’s position as a potential running mate tricky.⁵. If they both want to run together, one might need to change their state of residence. This is similar to what Dick Cheney did in 2000⁵.

The Role of California Politics

California politics are key in shaping the national scene, especially with Governor Newsom’s leadership. His actions have greatly influenced public policy and voter opinions. Newsom has faced many challenges, like the California gubernatorial recall, showing his strengths and weaknesses.

Governor Newsom’s Political Trajectory

Newsom has been pushing for progressive policies that California voters support. He has tackled big issues like homelessness and drug addiction. For example, he cleared over 9,300 dangerous encampments and started the CARE Court to help those with severe mental health issues⁷.

This shows his commitment to solving society’s big problems. His leadership style has also brought in a lot of financial support, raising $24 million for candidates and causes since 2022, which could help bolster his bid as a running mate.⁸.

Current Landscape of the California Gubernatorial Recall

The recall’s aftermath has affected Newsom’s popularity. His approval rating has fallen from 59% to 47% in a year, especially among independents. This shows he faces a big challenge as he looks to the future⁸.

As 2024 gets closer, keeping his voter base will be crucial. This is especially true with Kamala Harris likely running for president.

Harris and Newsom in the 2024 Presidential Race

Talks of a Harris-Newsom ticket in 2024 could be huge for California. Such a team could really get voters excited, especially in a state with 54 electoral votes. They might attract progressive voters nationwide with their bold decisions on housing and social issues.

As they look to the national stage, they’ll need to work together. This will be key to using California’s political power in the next elections.

Conclusion

Reflecting on Governor Gavin Newsom, the 12th Amendment, and California politics, we see deep implications for the 2024 presidential election. The 12th Amendment’s rules pose a big challenge, especially if Newsom and Vice President Kamala Harris run together. This would make California’s 54 electoral votes useless for them⁹¹⁰.

This situation makes the Democratic Party’s strategy more complex. They face a tough election landscape, especially with the need to vote by ballot for president and vice-president. It’s interesting to see how the 12th Amendment is now a key topic in politics¹⁰.

The last time a Republican won California’s electoral votes was in 1988. This shows how crucial California is for Democrats⁹. California Democrats have counted on their electoral edge. Any mistake in their ticket could hurt them a lot.

As we look ahead, the talk about Newsom’s plans and the 12th Amendment will keep us talking¹¹. This mix of factors shows we need to be flexible and think ahead for the 2024 elections.