California Governor Gavin Newsom has clarified his 2028 presidential intentions, stating firmly that he would not seek the Democratic nomination if former Vice President Kamala Harris enters the race. Speaking during a wide-ranging interview while fly-fishing in Montana, the governor emphasized that a primary contest between the two fellow San Francisco Democrats would be counterproductive.
Addressing the potential for a clash, Newsom remarked, “I don’t know if she runs, but we’ll see. I wouldn’t run if she ran.” He further underscored his position by questioning the utility of such a campaign, suggesting that an internal battle would result in “mutual assured destruction” and offer no benefit to the party or the public. According to the governor, the political overlap between their respective supporter bases would make a primary challenge an unappealing prospect.
When asked about the argument that Harris had faced electoral difficulties in previous cycles, Newsom acknowledged the objective history but remained steadfast in his refusal to position himself as her challenger. He expressed a desire to serve a “greater good” rather than engaging in contests he believes would be detrimental to those involved. He maintained that there would be “no upside” to such an endeavor.
Regarding his own potential path to the White House, Newsom reflected on why he opted not to challenge President Joe Biden in 2024. He stated he was simply “not ready” at that time and admitted that without a clear, definitive purpose—a “why”—any campaign would likely be unsuccessful. He criticized other candidates who pursue the presidency without a grounded motivation, calling the phenomenon “shocking” and a waste of time.
The governor’s personal history also took center stage during the discussion, covering challenges such as his dyslexia, a failed early marriage, a past affair involving a mayoral aide’s spouse, and the tragic circumstances of his mother’s assisted suicide. He noted that these experiences have helped him focus on what is currently most important to him, particularly his wife and four school-aged children. Newsom clarified that his family’s support is a prerequisite for any future presidential run, noting, “If they’re not on board, that’s a non-starter.”
Newsom is set to appear in a feature report on All Access, which premieres Tuesday at 8 a.m. ET. The program explores his outlook on public service, his political career, and the rigorous process of determining whether a candidate truly represents the current zeitgeist. As he continues to evaluate his political future, he emphasized that he is not driven by the desire to make a point, but rather by the ambition to make a meaningful difference. The report also notes that cursing at the elusive trout, and talking about whether he was going to run for president, we stood waist-deep in a cold Montana river. The report also notes that gavin Newsom had invited me and my crew to his in-laws’ spread on Bitterroot Springs Ranch in Big Sky Country. The report also notes that one I’ve been eager to experiment with for some time: a longform interview, not tied to news of the day, talking to people about their childhoods, their parents, some of their tougher moments and biggest successes of their lives, i had pitched an idea to him. The report also notes that or a studio, or with makeup, or ties, i didn’t want to do the interview in a chair. The report also notes that i wanted to go where the interviewee felt comfortable. The report also notes that a Democrat, I pitched the idea to a few others including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in addition to Newsom. The report also notes that thom Tillis of North Carolina has agreed to participate. The report also notes that STREAMING TUESDAY: Jake Tapper goes Out of Office with California Gov.