>> Continued From the Previous Page <<
After last year’s election, Newsom also met with several prominent conservative figures — including Steve Bannon and the late Charlie Kirk — in what some believe was an effort to test his political messaging against right-leaning audiences. The meetings followed a surge of attention surrounding President Trump’s successful podcast tour, which drew millions of listeners nationwide.
To further build his national image, Newsom has repeatedly used his office to clash with the federal government. He’s made a show of “standing up” to Washington — often framing his battles as resistance to Republican influence.
For example, Newsom has pushed back against federal military deployments in California and is now backing a controversial measure that could redraw five GOP-controlled House districts. The governor claims this redistricting is merely a “response” to Republican-led map changes in states like Texas. Critics, however, say it’s nothing more than a blatant power grab designed to boost Democrat numbers in Congress.
His online behavior has also raised eyebrows. In an apparent effort to mimic Donald Trump’s ability to dominate social media, Newsom has adopted a more combative, performative tone online — often posting bizarre, Trump-like messages that appear to be an attempt at parody.
As Newsom nears the end of his second and final term as California’s governor in 2027, the timing of his ambitions couldn’t be clearer. When pressed on when he’ll make an official decision about running, Newsom told CBS News that he’ll likely wait until after the 2026 midterm elections. “Fate will determine that,” he said.
Political analysts note that Newsom’s recent media blitz and cross-country appearances have already positioned him as a top Democratic contender. His mix of Hollywood polish, progressive talking points, and national exposure could make him a formidable — though deeply polarizing — figure in 2028.
While 2028 polling is still early, Newsom appears to be gaining momentum within the Democratic Party. According to the Race to the WH polling average, Newsom is currently sitting in second place with 21% support — trailing only Vice President Kamala Harris.
Several recent surveys, including those conducted by Alaska Survey Research, McLaughlin & Associates, and YouGov, show Newsom either tied with or ahead of Harris. AtlasIntel, which was rated the most accurate pollster of the 2024 election cycle, even found Newsom leading by a remarkable 16 points.
For conservatives, Newsom’s open admission only confirms what many have suspected: his national ambitions have long guided his decisions as governor. Under his leadership, California has faced record homelessness, soaring crime, and massive population loss — all while Newsom touts his progressive “California model” as something the rest of the nation should emulate.
Now, it seems he wants to take that model to Washington. And if his words are any indication, Gavin Newsom is already running for president — even if the campaign banners haven’t gone up just yet.
