Newsom's 2028 Playbook Is He Building a Resistance or a Run?

The 2028 Subtext of Newsom’s Speech: Positioning for a Future Presidential Run

Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, has recently found himself in the national spotlight, and not just for the challenges facing his state. His increasingly pointed exchanges with Republicans, particularly on social media, are fueling speculation about his potential presidential ambitions in 2028.

Newsom's sharp rejoinders to Republican critiques have resonated strongly with Democrats, a constituency that was previously wary of his perceived cordiality towards right-leaning figures. This shift marks a significant turning point in how Newsom is perceived on the national stage.

"It gives Gavin the ability to be a leader of a resistance that is not contrived," explains Rob Stutzman, a political strategist and former senior consultant to Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. "It’s real, because Trump has attacked him and his state."

However, the path to a potential presidential run is fraught with challenges. Newsom hails from California, a state often viewed as the epitome of "blue America." This connection, while beneficial in some respects, could also be a liability when appealing to a broader, more diverse electorate. Furthermore, the presence of Kamala Harris, the former Vice President and a fellow Californian, adds another layer of complexity.

The coming weeks will be crucial for Newsom. His political fortunes are inextricably linked to two key factors:

• What transpires on the streets of Los Angeles, as California navigates complex social and political issues.
• The actions and decisions of the current administration in the White House.

David Axelrod, former chief political aide to Barack Obama, acknowledged the power of Newsom’s message but cautioned against the difficulty of simultaneously condemning the president’s actions and urging protestors towards restraint. "Newsom's message was very powerful," Axelrod noted, highlighting the delicate balance required in navigating these turbulent times.

Despite the challenges, Newsom's forceful response to perceived attacks may have inadvertently positioned him as a leader of a resistance movement – a role he previously seemed to avoid. The critical question now is whether he can succeed where other Democrats have faltered: uniting the party behind a cohesive strategy to effectively challenge a president who has, thus far, proven remarkably resilient.

This episode highlights the evolving dynamics of US politics and the intricate dance individuals engage in as they posture for leadership roles. Only time will tell if Newsom can harness this momentum into a successful national campaign.

Tags: Gavin Newsom, California Politics, Republican clash, Trump attack, Democratic cheers, Kamala Harris, Blue America, Political strategist, Resistance leader, US politics

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/11/us/newsom-speech-2028.html