Gavin Newsom’s Hollywood Advantage as He Eyes 2028
California Governor Gavin Newsom appears to have a favorable position with Hollywood ahead of the 2028 Democratic primary, as recent reports indicate he may secure financial backing from the entertainment industry.
Some industry insiders have labeled him a reliable choice for Democratic support, highlighting the importance of his combative approach against former President Donald Trump. “Honestly, I didn’t think much of Trump, but seeing how Newsom confronted him was pretty impressive,” reflected one executive.
Newsom has gained attention on the left for his confrontational style, utilizing platforms like podcasts and social media to challenge Trump. He’s also earned applause from progressive Hollywood for his support of Bill 50, which recently redrew political boundaries in California to favor Democrats, a move made to counteract Republican strategies in Texas.
“Donald Trump poked the bear, and the bear roared back,” Newsom remarked about his political maneuvers.
The two-term governor suggested in October that he might run for president after the upcoming midterm elections. HBO’s Bill Maher has publicly supported him, marking a departure from his usual critiques of Democrats he perceives as too left-leaning.
James Kostos, a former U.S. ambassador and HBO executive, noted there’s a significant wave of enthusiasm among contributors in Los Angeles for Newsom’s potential candidacy. “Big checks are being written,” he stated, pointing out that although the initial fundraising efforts were gradual, support is increasing “with legitimate wins and a growing resistance” against governmental excess.
However, some caution persists regarding Newsom’s early positioning in the 2028 race. The voter base may have hesitations about backing another candidate from California, especially following Kamala Harris’s unsuccessful bid for the presidency, considering that no Republican has carried the state in a presidential election since George H.W. Bush.
The landscape could become even more crowded with potential candidates like Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez entering the fray.
As things unfold, it’ll be interesting to see how the dynamics play out and whether Newsom can maintain his momentum as the primaries draw closer.
