When Is Gavin Newsom’s Term Up? A Precise Timeline of California’s Governorship

California’s chief executive is set to conclude his tenure in January 2027, marking the end of Gavin Newsom’s five-year tenure as governor. Newsom’s term began on January 2, 2019, and under California’s constitution, governors serve a maximum four-year term with no term limits, meaning his current position expires at the end of January 2027. This deadline triggers a decisive moment in state politics, requiring alignment between election cycles, gubernatorial succession procedures, and legislative sequencing.

The Constitutional Framework: Governors and Election Cycles

Gavin Newsom’s term is constitutionally defined by Article IV, Section 15 of California’s Constitution, which states: *“The Governor shall hold office for the term of four years…”* His first full term spans from January 2, 2019, to January 3, 2023, followed by a second term beginning January 2, 2023. Since term limits were explicitly prohibited by voters in 1990 (via Proposition 14), Newsom’s re-election bid in 2022 was his final opportunity to serve four full terms. With re-election unsuccessful—losing to Margie Presca in the November 2022 general election—his formal term ends January 3, 2023, and the full cycle from election to inauguration closes on January 2, 2027.

This timeline reflects the rhythm of American democratic governance, where leadership