Gavin Newsom Mulls Presidential Run After 2026 Midterms

California Governor Gavin Newsom, a prominent Democratic figure and critic of former President Donald Trump, has indicated that he will consider a presidential run in the 2028 election following the midterm elections scheduled for November 2026. In an interview with CBS Sunday Morning, Newsom acknowledged the possibility, stating, “I’d be lying otherwise,” when asked if he would seriously contemplate a campaign after the midterms.

Elevating his national profile, Newsom has adopted a confrontational approach reminiscent of Trump’s social media tactics. His strategy includes engaging in all-caps posts, memes, and merchandise that parody the former president’s style. This combative approach has positioned him as a key player in the Democratic Party, particularly in light of ongoing tensions with Trump regarding immigration policies and redistricting efforts.

Newsom’s criticisms of Trump have been vocal and pointed. He has clashed with the former president over the deployment of the California National Guard in response to immigration protests and has actively campaigned to redraw California’s congressional maps, aiming to secure an additional five Democratic seats in Congress. This initiative is a direct response to recent redistricting changes in Texas that favor Republicans. Voting on the proposed Proposition 50 is currently underway and will conclude on November 4, 2023.

In the interview, Newsom expressed anticipation for the candidates who will emerge in 2028, stating, “I’m looking forward to who presents themselves in 2028 and who meets that moment. And that’s the question for the American people.” His ongoing feud with Trump, marked by sharp rhetoric, shows no signs of abating. Recently, Trump agreed to cancel a planned federal show of force in San Francisco after pleas from tech executives and the city’s mayor, a position Newsom previously held from 2004 to 2011.

Newsom’s description of Trump as an “invasive species” underscores his critical stance. He elaborated, “He’s a wrecking ball. Not just the symbolism and substance of the East Wing. He’s wrecking alliances, truth, trust, tradition, institutions.” This characterization reflects the broader Democratic sentiment regarding Trump’s influence on American politics.

Earlier this year, Newsom launched a podcast aimed at positioning himself as a centrist figure. The show features dialogues with a diverse array of political personalities, including the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, former Trump strategist Steve Bannon, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and Texas Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett. These conversations are part of Newsom’s strategy to broaden his appeal across the political spectrum as he navigates the path towards a potential presidential campaign.

In summary, Newsom’s consideration of a presidential run reflects his growing prominence within the Democratic Party and his ongoing rivalry with Trump. As the midterm elections approach, his actions and statements are likely to influence the political landscape leading into the next presidential election cycle.