California Governor Gavin Newsom joined CNN host Jake Tapper for a fly‑fishing outing on the Bitterroot River at Bitterroot Springs Ranch near Big Sky, Montana. The informal setting was meant to let the governor speak candidly about his life, values and the possibility of a 2028 presidential campaign.
Personal reflections and family priorities
During the trek, Newsom spoke about his upbringing, his dyslexia, his marriage and divorce, and the recent loss of his mother. He emphasized that his four school‑aged children are the most important consideration in any decision to run for president, noting, “If they’re not on board, that’s a non‑starter.” He also referenced his faith, describing his political ambitions as a “gift from God” that would need to serve a greater good.
Political calculations
When asked whether he would run if former Vice President Kamala Harris entered the race, Newsom said, “I don’t know if she runs, but we’ll see. I wouldn’t run if she ran.” He added that a contest between the two would be a “mutual assured destruction” scenario that would waste voters’ time. Newsom acknowledged Harris’s previous presidential bids, calling her arguments “objectively true,” but said he would not want to place Democratic voters or Republican opponents in a position that would benefit either side.
He also reflected on the importance of having a clear “why” for a campaign, warning that many candidates lack a compelling purpose. “You have to have a big enough why,” he said, adding that without it, a candidate “doesn’t belong there.”
Contrast with past elections
Newsom noted that some had suggested he challenge President Joe Biden in 2024, but he felt he was not ready then and would have been “crushed” without a strong reason. He expressed admiration for leaders who run for the right reasons and criticized those who pursue office for personal ambition.
Looking ahead
While the fishing trip yielded only a few trout, it produced a candid conversation about the governor’s future. Newsom said he is still weighing the decision, saying, “You just have to meet the moment. Do you represent the zeitgeist, or are you wasting everybody’s time?” He concluded by emphasizing his desire to make a difference, whether or not he ultimately seeks the White House.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
