Story perspectives

Poll Shows Kamala Harris Leads Newsom by 15 Points

By Drooid · Oct 14, 2026, 11:41 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Former Vice President Kamala Harris leads Governor Gavin Newsom by 15 points among potential 2028 Democratic candidates.
The Financial Times/Focaldata poll released October 11, 2026 shows Harris at 30% and Newsom at 15%.
Harris remains undecided about a 2028 run while campaigning for down-ballot Democrats in Michigan, Nevada, Georgia.
Newsom told CNN he would not run in 2028 if Harris decides to enter.

History

Historical Context

In the 1988 presidential race, incumbent Vice President George H.W. Bush defeated Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis, capturing 426 electoral votes and 53.4% of the popular vote—a victory that remains the last time a candidate exceeded 400 electoral votes. The 2026 FT/Focaldata poll showing Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of Governor Gavin Newsom echoes that historic VP-vs-governor advantage as Democrats eye the 2028 primary.

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Story summary

Former Vice President Kamala Harris leads Governor Gavin Newsom by 15 points among potential 2028 Democratic candidates.
The Financial Times/Focaldata poll released October 11, 2026 shows Harris at 30% and Newsom at 15%.
Harris remains undecided about a 2028 run while campaigning for down-ballot Democrats in Michigan, Nevada, Georgia.
Newsom told CNN he would not run in 2028 if Harris decides to enter.

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