Newsom won’t run for US president in 2028 if Harris does

California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, announced that he will not run for president in the 2028 election if former US Vice President Kamala Harris decides to enter the race. This statement was made during an interview with CNN anchor Jake Tapper, where the two were fishing together. Newsom explicitly stated, “I wouldn’t run if she ran,” highlighting his respect for Harris and the potential impact of their simultaneous candidacies on the Democratic vote. Newsom's comment reflects a longstanding political relationship between him and Harris, which dates back to their early careers in San Francisco. Since 2004, when Newsom was sworn in as Mayor and Harris served as the city’s District Attorney, both have experienced significant political advancements. Newsom has become a two-term governor of California, while Harris has served as a senator and then as vice president. The decision not to run against Harris underscores the dynamics within the Democratic Party as they prepare for the upcoming election cycle. Newsom's remarks suggest a strategic consideration of party unity and the importance of consolidating support among Democratic voters, rather than splitting the vote between two prominent candidates. This announcement has garnered attention from various media outlets, including CNN, Politico, Deadline, The Straits Times, and Fox News, all of which reported on Newsom's commitment to not challenge Harris if she chooses to run.