By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A new Emerson College poll reveals that 59 percent of California voters oppose Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2028 presidential bid, despite 61 percent of Democrats expressing support. This opposition is sharply divided along party lines, with strong disapproval from Republicans and independents. Newsom’s overall approval rating stands at a low 33 percent, contributing to the negative sentiment. The poll suggests economic concerns, including tariffs and housing affordability, are significant factors influencing voters’ opinions.
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California voters, according to a recent poll, overwhelmingly express a lack of enthusiasm for Governor Gavin Newsom’s potential presidential bid. This sentiment isn’t rooted in a single issue, but rather a confluence of concerns and criticisms that paint a picture of a politician whose appeal may be waning, particularly outside of his home state.
The perception of Newsom as a corporate-friendly, establishment Democrat is a recurring theme. Many feel he’s drifted away from the progressive values that initially garnered him support, leaving a sense of disillusionment among those who once considered him a champion of their causes. This shift is seen as particularly jarring given some of his recent actions, which have been interpreted by many as prioritizing relationships with powerful figures over upholding his stated values.
One particularly damning example cited is Newsom’s alleged interference in an investigation into Activision Blizzard, a major gaming company riddled with allegations of sexual harassment and assault. The assertion is that Newsom intervened to protect the company’s CEO, Bobby Kotick, at the expense of numerous victims. This incident, more than any other, seems to have solidified the belief among many that Newsom is more concerned with protecting corporate interests than championing the causes of justice and equality.
Beyond this specific incident, many are simply dissatisfied with Newsom’s overall performance as Governor of California. Issues such as homelessness, high housing costs, and high taxes in the state are frequently mentioned as reasons for their opposition to his candidacy. While acknowledging that some criticism might be unfair or oversimplified, the widespread nature of these concerns suggests a deep-seated dissatisfaction with Newsom’s leadership. This negative perception of California’s governance spills over into a broader reluctance to support a Californian for the presidency.
There’s a sense that Newsom is overly ambitious and perhaps even entitled, more focused on personal advancement than genuine policy changes. His willingness to appear on podcasts with figures like Steve Bannon and Charlie Kirk is seen by many as a blatant attempt to curry favor with a segment of the electorate that strongly opposes his stated political ideology, further cementing his image as a political opportunist. This strategic maneuvering is criticized as a lack of conviction and a disregard for genuine political principles.
The perception of Newsom as a “chameleon” is pervasive in many of the opinions expressed. Critics argue that he’s too focused on maintaining an image of electability, adapting his stances based on perceived political expediency rather than deeply held beliefs. This lack of authenticity further undermines his credibility among voters who are increasingly distrustful of politicians perceived as lacking genuine commitment.
Concerns extend beyond the issues raised directly within California’s borders. Many believe that Newsom’s political style and image wouldn’t translate effectively on a national stage. The argument is that his perceived weaknesses – his connection to big business, his perceived lack of genuine conviction, and his handling of California’s internal issues – would make him a vulnerable candidate in a national election, easily targeted by Republican opponents. The feeling is that he’d likely lose a general election, a risk that many Democratic voters are unwilling to take, given the stakes of the 2024 election.
In conclusion, the poll revealing widespread opposition to a Newsom presidential run reflects a complex interplay of factors. It’s not merely about policy disagreements, but about deeper concerns regarding his character, his perceived lack of genuine commitment to progressive values, and the perception that he would be a weak candidate in a national election. The sentiment is not confined to California; many voters across the country express reservations about his suitability for the presidency. The emerging consensus suggests that, at least for now, Newsom’s presidential aspirations face a significant hurdle to overcome.