Gavin Newsom says he would skip a 2028 run if Kamala Harris enters
California Governor Gavin Newsom told Jake Tapper he would not pursue the 2028 Democratic nomination if Kamala Harris also runs.
During a sit-down with Jake Tapper, Governor Gavin Newsom said he would withdraw from the 2028 Democratic presidential race if Vice President Kamala Harris decides to run, calling such a contest “mutually assured destruction.” He highlighted their joint political beginnings in San Francisco, where both were mentored by Willie Brown. Newsom also mentioned that Harris once advised a former staffer, Ruby Rippey, to pause before speaking publicly.
Reports indicate he has recruited several of Harris’s former aides to his own team. Harris has not publicly disclosed her intentions for 2028, and their relationship has been marked by tension despite early cooperation. The interview took place while Newsom was fishing, underscoring the informal setting of the remarks.
How this was covered
- Left-leaning outlets covered this 81m later
Why it matters
The stance could shape the Democratic primary field and affect the party’s strategy for the 2028 election.
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