Declining Interest in Gavin Newsom
CNN’s senior data analyst Harry Enten remarked on Tuesday that Americans appear to be losing interest in California Governor Gavin Newsom.
According to Enten, Newsom’s probability of securing the Democratic nomination in 2028 has dropped significantly—from 37% in November to 28% in February, based on data from Kalsi’s prediction market. Furthermore, Google searches for Newsom have plummeted by 63% since August, coinciding with his social media criticisms of former President Donald Trump.
“It seems like Gavin Newsom is a bit more rattled than he was before,” Enten commented. He pointed out that despite the previous high expectations, now his chances look considerably diminished.
He added, “And just to note, people seem somewhat indifferent. I mean, I’m finding myself less interested in Gavin Newsom than before.” He referenced the notable decline in searches, saying those have dropped dramatically since the peak interest around August. It’s almost puzzling—remember how much buzz there was when he started openly challenging the president? At that time, it seemed like Democrats were really engaged with him. But now, interest seems to be fizzing out gradually.
Enten mentioned that Newsom maintains a thin 19-point lead over other potential candidates for the 2028 Democratic primary, with Kamala Harris closely trailing him at 18%. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is in the last place with 12%. As of Tuesday, Harris is actually holding a 7.6-point edge in the primary, according to a poll from RealClear.
As of February, the Democratic Party is yet to identify a clear frontrunner for the upcoming election, marking a somewhat uncertain landscape, especially considering this is the first instance since 1992 where an election is happening in such a context.
Recently, Newsom faced criticism after remarks he made about Atlanta Mayor Andrew Dickens, suggesting that Dickens’ race may have contributed to his educational struggles. In response to backlash, Newsom told Fox News’ Sean Hannity that accusations of racism against him were unfair, particularly in light of his own challenges with dyslexia.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi recently expressed her support for Newsom, stating he would “make a great president,” in a public endorsement on February 13.
