California Gov. Gavin Newsom told CNN he will not run for president in 2028 if former Vice President Kamala Harris enters the race. The announcement came during a Monday evening interview with anchor Jake Tapper while the two were fly-fishing in Montana. Newsom ruled out a primary fight, stating it would only help Republicans win.
Newsom gave a clear answer when Tapper asked if he would run against Harris. According to NBC News, the governor said, "I wouldn't run if she ran." Tapper reacted with surprise to the direct response. Tapper confirmed, “If she runs, you will not?” Newsom replied, “Of course not. Why would I?”
The governor explained his reasoning during the CNN interview. He called a contest between the two California Democrats "mutually assured destruction." Newsom noted that their friend groups and supporters overlap too much. He stated, "I know her base of supporters. I know her friends. The Venn diagram on that is just pure crossover." He added that he would not "waste everyone's time" with such a race.
The Daily Wire reported that Newsom sees no upside for his party in this scenario. He argued that forcing allies to pick sides serves no greater good. "There would be no upside whatsoever," he said to NBC News.
Tapper challenged Newsom by noting Harris has run for president twice before. Newsom admitted that argument has merit. "That would be the case you'd make," he told the anchor. "Pretty good one, actually. That's objectively true." However, he maintained he knows the political cost of running against her personally. He said, "I wouldn't do that to people."
Newsom has conditions for any future run that involve his family. The New York Post reported he will only run if all four of his children agree. He recently told PBS that two of his kids support the idea while two oppose it. His children range in age from 10 to 17 years old. This family rule remains a key factor in his decision-making process.
He has already taken steps to build a national profile. According to the Daily Wire, Newsom launched a national fundraising campaign last August. The funds were meant for California redistricting but ads appeared across the country. He also started a podcast called "This Is Gavin Newsom" to expand his reach. He did not make the same promise about running against Rep. Ro Khanna.
The race for 2028 remains wide open for other candidates. Newsom said he has never gotten in the way of Harris's ambition. He told the Daily Wire, "And I don't imagine I would in the future." His comments shift the field but do not close the door on all contenders. Harris has not yet confirmed if she will run again.
Newsom's stance changes the dynamic for potential Democratic challengers. He made it clear that his path is blocked if she steps forward. The Washington Times noted that this announcement removes a major name from the early list.