Newsom says he would not run for president if Harris enters the 2028 Democratic race

California Governor Gavin Newsom told CNN’s Jake Tapper that he would not seek the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028 if former Vice President Kamala Harris also runs. “I wouldn’t run if she ran,” Newsom said, adding that he would not want to “waste everyone’s time.”

The governor suggested that a contest between the two would create significant overlap among their supporters, describing the voter base as “pure crossover.” He said such a split would benefit other candidates rather than serving either of them.

Both officials have hinted at possible 2028 bids, though Harris has not confirmed her intentions. In a recent podcast, she said she is focused on helping Democrats win the midterm elections and has not decided on a presidential run. A Harris spokesperson declined to comment, and Newsom’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Polls released in July showed Harris leading Newsom by double digits among Democratic voters, but party insiders remain uncertain about the enthusiasm for another Harris candidacy after the 2024 loss. Some California donors expressed reluctance to back Harris, while others showed more interest in Newsom.

The evolving primary landscape was further affected by the Democratic Party’s decision to hold its first primary in South Carolina, a state where Harris could gain additional support from Black voters. Newsom recently visited South Carolina, a move often interpreted as early campaign groundwork.

When asked about the timing of a potential run, Newsom said a candidate must “meet the moment” and honestly assess whether they represent the current political climate.