By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A recent poll indicates that California Governor Gavin Newsom currently holds a slight lead over former Vice President Kamala Harris in a hypothetical 2028 Democratic primary, with 25% of California Democrats supporting Newsom compared to Harris’s 19%. This poll, conducted by Politico and The Citrin Center, surveyed 1,445 registered California voters between late July and early August. The poll offers an early look into the preferences of Democrats in a crucial state for the party, which could be pivotal for either Newsom or Harris if they were to launch presidential bids.
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Gavin Newsom topping Kamala Harris in a 2028 presidential poll among California Democrats certainly stirs up some thoughts. It’s the kind of headline that sparks instant reactions, and the responses are varied, to say the least. A lot of people, it seems, are already looking beyond 2024, even if the election is still a ways off.
Gavin Newsom, as a California Democrat, seems to represent a particular brand of Democrat, and the comments indicate this is viewed favorably by the establishment wing of the party. Some see him as a skilled communicator, especially when it comes to taking on figures like Donald Trump. His recent social media activity is perceived positively by some. The fact that he is a well-known figure, especially in California, likely contributes to his name recognition and popularity. The idea of him capitalizing on any Trump-related vulnerabilities seems like an attractive proposition to many voters, given the climate.
However, for some, it’s not a clear-cut win. The fact that he is a California Democrat raises red flags for several commenters, who question whether a candidate from the West Coast can successfully appeal to voters in the Midwest and other swing states. The concern is that the policies and experiences from California might not resonate with the core values of voters in those regions. Concerns over his gun control stance also arise, and some think that will lead to losing the independent voters that Democrats need to win.
Kamala Harris, on the other hand, seems to be a less popular option, which is understandable as she has not been as successful. It’s clear that she may be considered “old news,” and many people seem to be hoping she won’t seek another presidential run. Some question her performance since the 2020 election, feeling she hasn’t left a strong mark and that has made her less appealing to voters. She has also been criticized for a perceived lack of action and her book deal.
The broader discussion then expands to who *could* be the candidate. Some look at other potential candidates like Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, who could be a viable candidate due to his billionaire status and his perceived ability to challenge Trump. The comments reveal a yearning for a “perfect” anti-Trump candidate, someone who can win in swing states. One of the main points of focus is that the DNC needs to get their next election right.
There’s also the observation that the campaign to elevate Newsom may be artificial. Some view his efforts as manufactured and lacking genuine grassroots support, highlighting the role of money in politics and how it can shape perceptions. This perspective suggests a wariness of manufactured narratives and a desire for authentic candidates. It seems that many believe there is a need for more diverse and progressive candidates who aren’t funded by AIPAC or billionaires.
Overall, the comments offer a snapshot of the complex political landscape, the various challenges facing the Democratic Party, and the diverse opinions within it.