‘Trump’s reign of terror must end’: California Democrats plot national return to power
The Guardian World
by Lauren Gambino in San FranciscoFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
California Democrats are rallying to challenge President Donald Trump's influence on the national stage, leveraging their recent successes as momentum. At a strategic gathering in San Francisco, they aim to shift the political landscape during the 2024 midterm elections, with California poised to play a pivotal role in countering Trump's agenda.
The event at the Moscone Center highlighted symbols of transition and unity. Attendees donned lanyards featuring Governor Gavin Newsom’s name, reflecting his rising influence, while tote bags bore Nancy Pelosi's mantra, "We don’t agonize, we organize." This juxtaposition underscored the party's continuity amid leadership changes.
As Pelosi approaches retirement and Newsom considers a presidential bid, California is positioning itself as a key player in shaping the 2024 political landscape. The gathering not only strategized for midterms but also set the stage for potential future leadership transitions
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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/22/2026