Gavin Newsom Considers 2028 Presidential Run

California Governor Gavin Newsom has confirmed he is contemplating a run for the presidency in 2028, stating in a recent interview with CBS News that he would be "lying" if he denied such intentions. Newsom, whose term as governor ends in January 2027 due to term limits, indicated that he would make a decision after the 2026 midterm elections. “Fate will determine that,” he remarked, emphasizing that any decision is still years away. His comments come amid a backdrop of increasing speculation about his political future, particularly following his vocal opposition to President Donald Trump.

LA Times

Newsom's potential candidacy is set against a backdrop of significant political maneuvering within the Democratic Party. He has emerged as a prominent critic of Trump, particularly regarding issues such as immigration and the deployment of National Guard troops in California. His administration has filed numerous lawsuits against the Trump administration, positioning him as a leading voice in the Democratic resistance. Additionally, Newsom has been actively involved in California's redistricting efforts, advocating for Proposition 50, which aims to redraw congressional maps to favor Democrats in response to similar Republican initiatives in Texas.

The Independent

The political landscape is further complicated by the potential candidacy of former Vice President Kamala Harris, who has also indicated she is considering a run for the presidency. Harris, who recently stated, “I am not done,” adds another layer of competition for Newsom, as both figures are major political players from California. Their simultaneous consideration of a presidential bid highlights California's significance as a hub of Democratic politics.

LA Times

Despite his rising profile, Newsom faces skepticism regarding his electability in battleground states. Critics, including some South Carolina Democrats, have expressed doubts about his ability to connect with working-class voters. Richard Harpootlian, a former state senator, noted that while Newsom is a charismatic figure, he lacks a track record of addressing pressing issues like homelessness, which could hinder his appeal in a national campaign.

LA Times

In his CBS interview, Newsom reflected on his personal journey, mentioning his struggles with dyslexia and the challenges he has overcome. He stated, “The idea that a guy who got 960 on his SAT... would even throw that out is, in and of itself, extraordinary.” This sentiment underscores his belief in the potential for unexpected paths in politics.

The Guardian

As the 2026 midterm elections approach, Newsom's focus remains on supporting Democratic candidates and initiatives, particularly Proposition 50. The outcome of this ballot measure could significantly impact the political landscape leading into the 2028 presidential race. With both Newsom and Harris considering their futures, the Democratic primary is poised to be highly competitive, reflecting the broader tensions within the party as it navigates its direction in the post-Trump era.

USA Today

• “Yeah, I’d be lying otherwise. I’d just be lying. And I’m not — I can’t do that,” — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California

Hollywood Reporter

• “I think it's about our democracy. It's about the future of this republic. I think it's about, you know, what the Founding Fathers lived and died for, this notion of the rule of law, and not the rule of Don,” — Gavin Newsom on Proposition 50

WJZ - CBS Baltimore

• “Who the hell knows? I’m looking forward to who presents themselves in 2028 and who meets that moment. And that’s the question for the American people.” — Gavin Newsom, reflecting on his potential candidacy

The Guardian

In summary, Gavin Newsom's consideration of a presidential run in 2028 marks a significant moment in the evolving landscape of American politics, particularly as he navigates the challenges of his current role while eyeing a future on the national stage.

New York Post