Newsom on 2028: “I’d Be Lying Otherwise”

California Governor Gavin Newsom has candidly addressed the swirling speculation around a potential 2028 presidential campaign, admitting that he would be “lying otherwise” if he claimed not to be considering a run for the nation’s highest office. His comments have ignited further discussion about the future leadership of the Democratic Party and the evolving political landscape leading up to the next presidential election cycle.

Gavin Newsom’s Presidential Ambitions: An Open Acknowledgment

During a recent interview with CBS News’ “Sunday Morning,” Governor Newsom directly confronted the persistent rumors about his political aspirations beyond his gubernatorial term, which concludes in 2027. When asked about a 2028 presidential bid, he stated, “Yeah, I’d be lying (if I said) otherwise. I’d just be lying. And I can’t do that.” This acknowledgment marks his clearest statement to date on the matter, moving beyond previous deflections to confirm that the thought of a White House run is indeed on his mind. Despite this, Newsom also conveyed a sense of humility and pragmatism, remarking, “The idea that a guy who got 960 on his SAT, that still struggles to read scripts, that was always in the back of the classroom, the idea that you would even throw that out is, in and of itself, extraordinary. Who the hell knows?” He also suggested that “fate will determine” his path and expressed anticipation for who else “presents themselves in 2028 and who meets that moment.”

Navigating the Current Political Climate

Newsom’s contemplation of a 2028 run is set against a backdrop of intense political maneuvering and anticipation. His current focus, he emphasized, remains on the upcoming 2026 midterm elections, which he views as crucial for rebalancing the political system. He has actively engaged in national political discourse, often directly confronting Republican President Donald Trump on various issues, which has boosted his prominence within the Democratic Party. Newsom has been a vocal proponent of Democratic efforts, including initiatives to redraw congressional maps to counter Republican strategies and ensure fair representation in the U.S. House of Representatives. This active involvement in national political battles is seen by some as a way to test the waters and build a national profile ahead of a potential presidential campaign.

Other Potential Democratic Contenders for 2028

The Democratic field for 2028 is expected to be crowded, with several high-profile figures already hinting at or being considered for a presidential bid. Notably, former Vice President Kamala Harris has also made statements indicating her continued political aspirations. In recent interviews, including with the BBC’s “Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg,” Harris stated, “I am not done. I have lived my entire career as a life of service, and it’s in my bones.” She expressed confidence that a woman would eventually occupy the Oval Office, possibly even herself. While Harris has not made a final decision, her remarks suggest she remains an active and central figure in U.S. politics. Other potential candidates mentioned in political circles include term-limited Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and California Representative Ro Khanna.

Factors Influencing a Future Bid

A decision to run for president involves a complex interplay of factors, and Newsom’s path to 2028 will likely be no exception. His record as California Governor, known for progressive policies on issues such as healthcare, climate change, and social justice, would form a significant part of his platform. His leadership during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, has also shaped his public image, although some decisions faced criticism. Beyond his policy record, factors such as fundraising capability, the ability to build a broad national coalition, and the political climate following the 2026 midterms and the 2024 presidential election will heavily influence any potential candidacy. The challenge of articulating a compelling “why” for his national effort, as Newsom himself has noted, will be paramount.

Conclusion

Gavin Newsom’s acknowledgment of considering a 2028 presidential campaign marks an important moment in the early discussions surrounding the next U.S. presidential election. While he emphasizes a present focus on critical midterm elections and maintaining a balanced perspective on his future, his openness about White House ambitions sets the stage for what is likely to be a dynamic and competitive Democratic primary field. As other prominent Democrats, including Kamala Harris, also signal their continued engagement in national politics, the coming years promise a compelling political narrative as potential candidates begin to define their visions for the nation.