Newsom Prioritizes Unity Over Personal Ambition, Backs Harris for 2028 to Prevent Splitting Progressive Vote
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Governor Gavin Newsom has reaffirmed his commitment to progressive solidarity by stating he will not run for president in 2028 if Kamala Harris seeks the Democratic nomination, emphasizing the need to avoid dividing California's progressive base and strengthening the party against conservative threats.
Governor Gavin Newsom, a staunch advocate for progressive values, told CNN anchor Jake Tapper that he would not seek the Democratic nomination for president in 2028 if former Vice President Kamala Harris, a fellow Californian and trailblazer for women and people of color, launches a campaign. The conversation, which took place during a fly-fishing trip in Montana, highlighted the importance of unity among California’s progressive leaders, including Rep. Ro Khanna and Harris, who all represent the future of the Democratic Party.
Newsom made it clear: "I wouldn't run if she ran," stressing his desire to avoid competing for the same progressive voters and to prevent “wasting everyone’s time.” He underscored that a scenario where both he and Harris—each with deep roots in the Bay Area’s progressive movement—entered the race could be detrimental to the broader Democratic cause, risking a split that would only benefit reactionary forces.
Tapper suggested that Harris, who has already broken barriers in her previous presidential bids, might be the one to step aside for Newsom. However, Newsom recognized the significance of Harris’s grassroots support and the historic nature of her candidacy, showing respect for the movement she represents.
Recent polling from Real Clear Politics demonstrates Harris leading the speculative 2028 field with 24.5% support, followed by Newsom at 13.5%, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at 12.8%, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a champion of democratic socialism, at 11%. This underscores the growing influence of progressive voices in shaping the future of the Democratic Party.