Newsom Bows Out for Harris, Exposing California Democrats' Power Struggle for 2028
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Governor Gavin Newsom admitted to CNN that he would not challenge Kamala Harris for the 2028 Democratic nomination, revealing the internal jockeying and political calculations dominating California’s liberal elite as they vie for control of the party.
Governor Gavin Newsom, a prominent figure among California’s liberal establishment, told CNN anchor Jake Tapper that he would not seek the Democratic nomination for president in 2028 if former Vice President Kamala Harris, another product of the state’s left-wing political machine, decides to run. The conversation, which took place while the two enjoyed a fly-fishing trip in Montana, highlighted the ongoing power struggle among California Democrats, with names like Rep. Ro Khanna and Harris all angling for national influence.
Newsom stated, “I wouldn’t run if she ran,” making it clear he would rather avoid splitting the far-left California vote and “wasting everyone’s time.” He admitted that both he and Harris, who share roots in the Bay Area’s progressive circles, running in the same race could damage the Democratic Party’s chances, exposing the fragility of their coalition.
Tapper pointed out that Harris, who has already failed in previous presidential bids, could be the one to step aside for Newsom. Yet Newsom deferred, acknowledging Harris’s entrenched support among the party’s activist base, a base increasingly out of touch with mainstream America.
According to Real Clear Politics, Harris leads the speculative 2028 Democratic field with 24.5% support, trailed by Newsom at 13.5%, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at 12.8%, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a self-described socialist, at 11%. These numbers highlight the Democratic Party’s ongoing lurch to the left and the dominance of radical voices in shaping its future.