California Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly challenged Vice President J.D. Vance to a debate following Vance's recent visit to Los Angeles. The challenge comes after Vance criticized Newsom and referred to Senator Alex Padilla by the name "Jose" during a press conference in the city. Newsom, who is considered a potential presidential candidate for 2028, issued the debate challenge while Vance was in California. In July, tensions escalated when Newsom criticized Vance for taking a family trip to Disneyland and for not responding to the debate invitation. Vance responded to Newsom's remarks by stating he "had a great time" at Disneyland. The trip also sparked controversy after some commentators, including a Mother Jones editor, made inflammatory remarks about Vance's children being heckled at Disneyland, drawing widespread condemnation. The exchange highlights growing political friction between the two figures ahead of the 2028 presidential cycle.