The 28th Amendment Proposal
Newsom’s proposed amendment includes four key measures: universal background checks, raising the minimum age for gun purchases to 21, implementing waiting periods, and banning assault weapons.
These measures aim to enhance public safety and reduce gun violence.
The Campaign's First Year
Since launching the campaign on June 8, 2023, Newsom has focused on building public support through social media and a formal online petition.
Source: Wikimedia
This petition has helped expand the mailing list for his political action committee.
Grassroots Mobilization
A major part of Newsom’s strategy involves training volunteers and creating a “grassroots army” to advocate for the amendment.
Source: Office of the Governor of California/Wikimedia Commons
Over 1,500 volunteers have been trained so far, with a goal of reaching 10,000 by early 2025.
Legislative Challenges
Passing a constitutional amendment is a complex process. It requires approval from two-thirds of state legislatures to convene a constitutional convention, followed by ratification from three-fourths of the states.
Source: Freepik
This high threshold has contributed to the campaign’s slow progress.
Limited Support from Other States
Despite California’s efforts, no other states have joined the call for a constitutional convention in the past year.
Source: Canva
Even in Democratic-controlled states like New York and Illinois, there has been little discussion about supporting Newsom’s proposal.
Political Implications
Critics argue that Newsom’s campaign may be more about political positioning than achieving legislative success.
Source: Freepik
Alan Gottlieb of the Second Amendment Foundation suggests that Newsom is using the issue to maintain a national profile, possibly in preparation for a future presidential run.
Impact of the Bruen Decision
The 2022 Supreme Court decision in Bruen has significantly impacted California’s gun control laws.
Source: Kjetil Ree, Wikimedia
This ruling established a new standard for reviewing firearms laws, leading to several of California’s restrictions being overturned in the courts.
Judicial Setbacks
In response to the Bruen decision, California has faced a series of legal challenges to its gun control laws.
Source: Freepik
Judges have ruled against several state laws, including those on handgun safety features, magazine limits, and assault weapon bans. These rulings are currently being appealed.
National Gun Control Advocacy
Major national gun control advocacy groups have been cautious about supporting Newsom’s constitutional amendment strategy.
Source: Thomas Tucker/Unsplash
Organizations like Everytown for Gun Safety and Brady: United Against Gun Violence have focused more on legislative efforts and public awareness campaigns.
Future Prospects
Newsom’s team plans to reinvigorate the campaign in 2025 when most state legislatures reconvene.
Source: Getty Images
They hope that the groundwork laid over the past year will lead to more states joining the effort to pass the 28th amendment.
Watching What Happens
While Newsom’s campaign for a 28th amendment faces significant challenges and uncertain support, it has succeeded in raising awareness and mobilizing grassroots efforts.
Source: Rawpixel.com, Freepik
The next few years will be important in determining whether this ambitious proposal can gain the necessary momentum to succeed.