Newsom’s Timing for Decision on 2028 Presidential Bid

California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced his plan to decide by early January whether he will pursue a presidential campaign for 2028. He had previously stated he would not run if Kamala Harris enters the race.

“As it relates to 2028, we’ll make that decision in the next few months,” Newsom told Turkey’s Anadolu news agency during the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference in Antalya, Turkey. He intends to determine his candidacy intentions with his family over the coming weeks and make an announcement by early January.

Newsom, who will end his term as governor in January, has often been considered a potential 2028 candidate. Other Democratic figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Jon Ossoff are also suggested contenders, adding to the conversation surrounding future campaigns.

The potential candidacy of fellow Californian and 2024 Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris is a factor in Newsom’s decision. Previously, he expressed his commitment not to run if Harris officially launches a bid. In a past interview, Newsom told CNN’s Jake Tapper he would step aside if Harris moved forward with her campaign ambitions.

“If she runs, you will not,” Tapper stated. Newsom responded, “Of course not. Why would I? I wouldn’t do that to her … I wouldn’t do that to you. I wouldn’t waste everyone’s time. Who needs that?”

He also mentioned during the interview that the dynamics of multiple Democrats vying for the nomination could lead to significant internal competition.

Examining his potential campaign strategy, Newsom remarked that many would focus on the idea that Harris had prior opportunities while he has not yet run for president, providing what he considers a strong case for his candidacy.

Newsom, set to finish his term in 2026 due to term limits, discussed the political context after midterm elections where Democrats made significant gains. He emphasized the importance of the Democratic Party setting a distinctive agenda in contrast to former President Donald Trump.

“Donald Trump’s presidency, as we know it, ended last week in the U.S.,” Newsom stated, highlighting the historic political shift. He urged Democratic leaders to govern effectively and define a clear, positive strategy moving forward.