California’s Governor Gavin Newsom hinted on Sunday at a possible presidential run in 2028, suggesting he might make a formal announcement after the midterm elections in 2026.
According to CBS News, during an interview in San Jose, Newsom was asked if he would “seriously consider” a White House bid following next year’s elections. He replied, “Yes, if you don’t, you’re lying. I’m just lying. And I’m not. I can’t do that.”
With his term ending in January 2027 and unable to seek re-election due to term limits, Newsom indicated that any decision about running for president is still years away.
His opposition to the Trump administration has reportedly led to costs of around $40 billion, which he incurred while publicly challenging Trump on social media and pursuing lawsuits against the administration’s policies. This could reflect his ambitions for the presidency, as he aims to demonstrate to Democratic primary voters that he can successfully take on opponents.
In 2020, amid the pandemic, he took a different approach, trying to show collaboration with Trump to gain broader support.
Newsom and competitors like Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker are seemingly engaged in a “race to the bottom,” focusing on how democratic voters might prefer candidates with a proven history in public service.
Despite grappling with significant state budget deficits for the second consecutive year, Newsom has managed to raise $50 million for a legal campaign against the Trump administration. This includes funding for family planning, election-related expenses, and efforts to reshape California’s congressional districts.
However, during his seven years in office, Newsom has faced criticism. California currently has the highest unemployment and poverty rates in the country, even with a wealthy tax base in certain coastal regions, some of which have been impacted by wildfires.
