California Governor Gavin Newsom says he would not run against Kamala Harris in 2028
In a televised interview from a Montana ranch, Governor Gavin Newset indicated he would not enter the 2028 presidential race if former Vice President Kamala Harris becomes a candidate, citing personal considerations and lack of a compelling reason.
Governor Gavin Newsom sat with CNN anchor Jake Tapper on a ranch in Montana, where the two fished and discussed the governor’s political future. When asked about a possible 2028 presidential bid, Newsom said he would not run if former Vice President Kamala Harris entered the race.
"I wouldn’t run if she ran," Newsom told Tapper. He added that competing against Harris would create a “mutual assured destruction” scenario for the Democratic Party and that he would not want to “waste everyone’s time.” Newsom explained that a presidential campaign requires a clear, personal motivation, which he does not currently have. He said he would need a strong “why” and the support of his wife and four children before considering a run. The interview also touched on Newsom’s personal background, including his dyslexia, family life and previous political challenges, but he emphasized that his current priority is his family and governing California. Newsom concluded that any decision to run would depend on whether he feels he can represent the current political moment and make a meaningful contribution.