WORLD · VERIFIED DEVELOPMENT
Newsom Rules Out Presidential Bid if Harris Runs Again
WHY IT MATTERS
This development raises questions about the potential 2028 presidential candidates and their timelines for deciding on a White House bid, with implications for the Democratic primary and the future of the party.
What happened
California Governor Gavin Newsom has stated that he will not run for president in the 2028 election if Vice President Kamala Harris decides to run again. This announcement comes after Harris publicly acknowledged her consideration of a White House bid four months ago.
Newsom's decision is seen as a strategic move, as he believes that a Harris candidacy would benefit other primary candidates. He also cited the shared political base of the two Californians, which he believes would hinder their chances of success.
Newsom has been laying groundwork for a national campaign for over a year, using his redistricting efforts as a launch pad.
PRIMARY SOURCES
Gavin Newsom says he won’t run for president if Kamala Harris runs again
POLITICO Europe · Melanie Mason · Discovery only; POLITICO copyright and subscription terms apply