California Governor Gavin Newsom has indicated that he will consider a presidential run in 2028 following the midterm elections in November 2026. In an interview with CBS Sunday Morning, Newsom acknowledged the possibility, stating, “I’d be lying otherwise” when asked if he would give a campaign serious thought after the elections.
With his sights set on increasing his national profile, Newsom has adopted a confrontational approach that mirrors Donald Trump’s social media tactics, employing similar all-caps posts, memes, and merchandise to engage his audience. The Democratic governor has frequently clashed with the Republican president, particularly over the deployment of the California National Guard during immigration protests and Trump’s redistricting initiatives in Texas. In response to these developments, Newsom is leading a campaign to redraw California’s congressional maps, aiming to add five Democratic U.S. House seats. Voting on the proposed Proposition 50 is currently underway and will conclude on November 4.
In his interview, Newsom expressed anticipation for the political landscape leading up to 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.” The ongoing feud between Trump and Newsom appears far from settled. Recently, Trump announced he would halt a planned show of federal force in San Francisco after appeals from local business leaders and the city’s mayor, a position Newsom held from 2004 to 2011.
During the interview, Newsom characterized Trump as an “invasive species,” referring to his disruptive impact on American politics. “He’s a wrecking ball. Not just the symbolism and substance of the East Wing,” Newsom remarked, referencing the demolition of the East Wing of the White House to create a ballroom. “He’s wrecking alliances, truth, trust, tradition, institutions.”
Earlier this year, Newsom launched a podcast aimed at presenting himself as a centrist figure. The show features discussions with a range of political figures, including the late conservative Charlie Kirk and former Trump strategist Steve Bannon. He has also conversed with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who is the running mate of former Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming 2024 elections, and U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, a Texas Democrat.
As the 2026 midterms approach, Newsom’s potential presidential aspirations loom larger in the political landscape. His ability to navigate the complex dynamics of national politics will be crucial as he considers his future in a potential 2028 campaign.
