Executive Summary
The Story So Far
Why This Matters
Who Thinks What?
California Governor Gavin Newsom has indicated he would consider a presidential bid in 2028, stating he would be “lying otherwise” if he denied the possibility. His focus, however, remains on the 2026 midterm elections, which he believes are crucial for Democrats to regain control of the House of Representatives and counter the influence of President Donald Trump.
Potential 2028 Ambitions
Newsom made the remarks during an interview on CBS’ Sunday Morning, where he was directly asked about seriously considering a presidential run after the upcoming midterms. “Yeah, I’d be lying otherwise,” Newsom stated. “I’d be lying, And I’m, I can’t do that.”
The governor emphasized that his immediate priority is the 2026 midterm elections. He believes that if Democrats succeed in these elections, President Trump’s presidency will “de facto end.” Newsom also expressed concern that the current political landscape, specifically mentioning Speaker Johnson, could lead to what he termed a “third term of President Trump.”
Political Strategy and Opposition to Trump
Newsom is actively involved in efforts to reshape the political map, serving as the chief proponent for California’s Proposition 50 ballot measure. This initiative aims to allow California to initiate congressional redistricting, a move intended to combat Republican efforts in other states.
In recent months, Newsom has emerged as a vocal critic of President Trump. He has publicly pushed back against federal deployments and ICE raids in California. His social media team has also drawn attention for mimicking Trump’s style of Truth Social posts, employing AI-generated memes, random capitalizations, and personal attacks.
Further demonstrating his opposition, Newsom launched “The Patriot Shop” in August, offering merchandise that parodies Trump’s “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN” branding. Advertisements for the shop also featured a Bible with a “SOLD OUT” tag, an apparent allusion to Trump’s “God Bless The USA Bibles.”
Broader Outreach and Democratic Field
Newsom has also sought to broaden his political outreach beyond traditional Democratic circles. In March, he launched his “This is Gavin Newsom” podcast, which notably featured an extensive interview with conservative activist Charlie Kirk and another episode with former Trump adviser Steve Bannon.
Newsom is among several Democrats seen as potential contenders for the 2028 presidential race. Other names in the discussion include former Vice President Kamala Harris, who recently told the BBC she “possibly” would run again. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are also frequently mentioned.
When pressed about his personal “why” for a presidential campaign, Newsom indicated he did not have a definitive answer, stating that “faith will determine that.” His current focus remains on the strategic political battles leading up to the 2026 midterms, which he views as pivotal.
