California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) is gaining momentum as a potential candidate for the 2028 election, especially after his recent clashes with President Trump over the unrest in Los Angeles. Amid immigration protests that shook the city and led Trump to deploy National Guard troops without Newsom’s consent, the governor has positioned himself as a prominent figure resisting Trump’s second-term actions. This stance has energized Democrats and boosted Newsom’s chances in the 2028 primary, according to a recent Morning Consult poll.
While Newsom enjoys strong support among Democrats in California and nationwide, experts recognize that he faces challenges as he nears the end of his gubernatorial term and navigates a politically divided landscape. Despite his efforts to engage with the Trump administration and bridge political divides, Newsom’s confrontation with Trump over recent events, including ICE raids and National Guard deployments, has reinforced his image as a resolute opponent of executive overreach.
Through fiery speeches, media appearances, and social media outreach, Newsom has criticized Trump’s actions as threats to democracy, drawing criticism from conservatives. His defiance has raised his profile on the national stage, fueling speculation about a potential presidential bid in 2028. Recent polling shows an increase in support for Newsom among Democrats, positioning him as a viable contender alongside other prominent figures like former Vice President Kamala Harris.
For now, Newsom has refrained from confirming any presidential ambitions, emphasizing that his focus remains on his current responsibilities. However, he has hinted at the possibility of a future run, acknowledging that circumstances could lead him down that path. As Newsom continues to challenge the Trump administration and advocate for progressive values, his political trajectory remains a subject of speculation and interest among Democratic circles.
While not necessarily an official audition for higher office, she mentioned that his public clashes with Trump regarding the protests could potentially benefit his future prospects. She explained that this showcases strength and reassures the Democratic Party base, independents, and even common-sense Republicans that there are individuals willing to challenge and stand up to Trump. This high-profile resistance from Newsom comes at a critical time for the party, following a challenging election year. A California Democratic strategist acknowledged the party’s need for a leader and noted that Newsom’s recent surge in popularity has captured attention. However, sustaining this level of momentum three years prior to an election would be a significant challenge for any aspiring candidate. Newsom may encounter unique challenges if he decides to pursue the presidency, including California’s increasing vulnerability to right-wing attacks due to the protests highlighting scenes of disorder that Republicans could exploit to criticize Democrats on crime and immigration issues. Despite Newsom’s strong national presence as the governor of a substantial state, his ties to progressive and liberal-leaning regions like San Francisco may pose challenges, as they could reinforce stereotypical views of Democrats. The ongoing protests are unlikely to be Newsom’s final interaction with Trump, and he may need to adjust his approach to ensure federal support during crises like wildfires or earthquakes. Some observers question Newsom’s shifting stance towards Trump, suggesting that his fluctuating relationship with the president could erode trust within the party. However, others argue that engaging with Trump requires adaptability given his unpredictable nature. While Newsom’s confrontation with Trump has bolstered his standing within the party, future political challenges lie ahead, especially since Trump won’t be on the ballot in 2028. If Newsom chooses to run, he will need to navigate the shifting political landscape while also addressing any potential drawbacks of focusing solely on opposition to Trump.
Navigating the period between leaving the governor’s mansion and running for election can pose challenges for politicians, particularly those facing term limits. The task of staying relevant during this gap can be daunting, as highlighted by Bennett’s comments. This remains a significant hurdle for individuals seeking the presidency after leaving office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, visit The Hill’s website.
