On November 15, 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom publicly called for prayers for President Donald Trump, stating, "He is not mentally well." This statement followed an exchange Trump had with a reporter aboard Air Force One, where he discussed the results of a recent MRI and cognitive assessment. Trump claimed that the MRI results were "outstanding" but admitted uncertainty about the specifics of what his doctors were analyzing. He also asserted that he had performed exceptionally well on the cognitive assessment, claiming a perfect score.

Newsom's comments reflect a growing tension between him and Trump, with some observers interpreting his remarks as a potential indication of a presidential campaign in 2028. Recently, Newsom has intensified his criticisms of Trump, particularly concerning Trump's associations with Jeffrey Epstein, especially after the House Oversight Committee released extensive email correspondence related to Epstein.

In a social media post, Newsom altered a sign at the White House to read, "I am a pedo," referencing Trump's past connections. Furthermore, Newsom is currently facing legal challenges from the U.S. Department of Justice regarding Proposition 50, a measure designed to redraw California's congressional boundaries in response to Republican gerrymandering efforts in other states. Newsom's office has criticized the DOJ's lawsuit for containing inaccuracies, including a typographical error that misidentified the California Legislature, which they argue undermines the credibility of the legal action against him.