California Governor Gavin Newsom told reporters at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Antalya, Turkey, that he will decide whether to run for president in the 2028 election within the next two months. “We’ll make that decision in the next few months and I’ll make the determination at the beginning of the year,” Newsom said, adding that he will spend the coming weeks with his family before announcing his choice in early January.
Context of the Announcement
Newsom, who is term‑limited and will leave the governor’s office in January 2027, has been mentioned frequently as a potential Democratic contender for the 2028 race. He joins other names such as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez and Sen. Jon Ossoff in speculation about the party’s next presidential nominee.
The governor also referenced former Vice President Kamala Harris, the 2024 Democratic nominee, noting that he would not enter the race if she decided to run again. “If she runs, you will not,” Newsom told CNN’s Jake Tapper in a September interview, emphasizing his respect for Harris and his desire not to split the Democratic field.
Reaction to Recent Midterm Results
Newsom made his remarks a week after Republicans suffered sweeping defeats in the recent midterm elections, losing control of both chambers of Congress and several traditionally Republican districts. The governor expressed satisfaction with the outcome, saying he was “particularly pleased with the outcome of the election.” He highlighted the end of President Donald Trump’s tenure, describing it as a “historic rebuke of his tenure” and urging the Democratic Party to present a positive alternative agenda.
President Trump’s administration, according to Newsom, has concluded, and the former president’s policies are now a point of contrast for Democrats seeking to define their own platform. This framing aligns with the broader conservative perspective that the Trump administration’s legacy offers a clear benchmark for future policy debates.
Implications for California and the Nation
If Newsom decides to run, his campaign would likely focus on his record in California, including his work on climate initiatives, economic growth, and public‑health measures. His decision will also shape the strategic calculations of other potential Democratic candidates, especially in a post‑Trump political landscape where the party is seeking to redefine its direction.
Regardless of his ultimate choice, Newsom’s announcement underscores the importance of early planning for the 2028 election cycle. Voters and party leaders will be watching closely as the field of candidates begins to take shape, and the governor’s timeline provides a clear marker for when the discussion will intensify.
What Comes Next
California residents and national observers can expect further statements from Newsom’s office in the coming weeks. The governor’s team has indicated that a formal announcement, if he chooses to run, will be made in early January, giving the Democratic Party time to organize its primary strategy well before the 2028 election season ramps up.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
