Gov. Gavin Newsom Backs Kamala Harris for 2028 Presidential Run

Governor Gavin Newsom announced he will not seek the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028 if Kamala Harris decides to run. In an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, Newsom emphasized his respect for the former vice president by declaring, “I wouldn’t run if she ran. Why would I? I wouldn’t do that to her. I wouldn’t waste everyone’s time.”

This stance reflects his intention to avoid a contentious competition for California’s support, acknowledging potential crossover between their followers. Newsom’s decision reduces the likelihood of a clash between two of California’s prominent political figures in an election seen as crucial for the Democratic Party.

Both Newsom and Harris are considering presidential bids for 2028. However, Harris remains non-committal, stating her focus is on helping Democrats in the midterms. A spokesperson for Harris did not provide comments, and Newsom’s representatives were unavailable on Monday.

Polls indicate Harris as a potential frontrunner for 2028, with one survey in July placing her ahead of Newsom by a significant margin. Despite this, some party members question if a Harris candidacy would garner enthusiasm after the 2024 loss to President Trump. Certain California donors have expressed reluctance to back Harris, with some favoring Newsom.

The dynamics of the 2028 Democratic primary continue to shift, influenced by factors like the primary state’s selection of South Carolina. This choice might advantage Harris if South Carolina’s Black voters rally behind her.

Newsom and Harris, having risen in politics together, have never directly competed in elections. Newsom stated in February that he has “never gotten in the way of her ambition” and doesn’t foresee doing so.

Recently, Newsom visited South Carolina, a move often viewed as preliminary for a presidential campaign. He acknowledged in the CNN interview that a race against Harris might dilute their voting base, which he sees as counterproductive for the election.

Filmed in Montana during a fly-fishing trip with Tapper, Newsom expressed the need for any candidate to “meet the moment.” He stressed, “You gotta be honest with yourself. Do you represent the zeitgeist of the moment or are you wasting everybody’s time?”