Gavin Newsom Puts Kamala Harris at the Centre of His 2028 Decision as Presidential Race Takes Shape

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California Governor Gavin Newsom has said he would not seek the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028 if former Vice President Kamala Harris decides to run, potentially removing one of the party’s biggest potential contenders from the race.

Newsom made the comments in an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, saying a direct contest with Harris would be damaging because they share many of the same Democratic supporters, donors and political networks. He described such a battle as “mutually assured destruction” that could ultimately benefit Republicans.

Newsom has long been viewed as a potential 2028 candidate. His second term as California governor ends this year, and his national political appearances, including a recent visit to South Carolina, have fuelled speculation about a presidential campaign. He has not formally declared his candidacy.

Harris, meanwhile, has said she is considering another presidential run. She became the Democratic nominee in 2024 after replacing Joe Biden, but lost the election to Donald Trump. She has not confirmed whether she will seek the nomination again, saying her immediate focus is the 2026 midterm elections.

A Harris-Newsom primary would have been one of the most closely watched contests in the Democratic race, given their shared California roots and overlapping political networks. With Newsom now indicating he would step aside if Harris runs, other potential candidates such as Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer could attract greater attention.

Newsom has also built a strong national profile through his political battles with Trump and his promotion of California policies. However, his record on issues including housing, homelessness and wildfires could become a major focus if he eventually seeks the White House.

For now, Harris holds the key to Newsom’s 2028 plans. If she enters the race, Newsom says he will stay out; if she does not, the California governor could become one of the Democratic Party’s leading presidential contenders.