California Gov. Gavin Newsom Appears on Colbert Amid Kimmel Suspension Controversy

California Governor Gavin Newsom has taken a combative stance against the Trump administration, using social media parodies and lawsuits to challenge what he describes as authoritarian actions by President Trump and his government. Newsom appeared on "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," emphasizing Democrats' willingness to fight back substantively and highlighting California's efforts to provide independent, science-based vaccine guidance amid politicization. His appearance followed the controversial suspension and subsequent return of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" after Kimmel's remarks about the assassination of political commentator Charlie Kirk sparked backlash and FCC scrutiny, with Newsom publicly supporting Kimmel and criticizing censorship under Trump. The suspension of Kimmel's show led to protests and preemptions by major broadcasters, illustrating the heightened tensions around political violence and media freedom. Meanwhile, Senator Mark Kelly also appeared on Colbert's show, reflecting on the personal impact of political violence and advocating for reduced social media use to heal divisions. Both Newsom and Kelly's appearances underscore the ongoing national dialogue about political violence, free speech, and the polarized media landscape.