Gavin Newsom’s Rising Popularity: A New Challenger for 2028 Presidential Race
Introduction: Newsom vs. Trump on Social Media
California Governor Gavin Newsom is making headlines as he adopts a style reminiscent of former President Donald Trump’s social media approach. This tactic has propelled him into the spotlight, making him one of the most popular Democratic figures not only in the United States but possibly worldwide.
Poll Numbers Surge
According to a recent Emerson College poll, Newsom has more than doubled his support among Democratic primary voters in just two months, reaching 25%. This surge places him significantly ahead of other potential candidates as the party begins to set its sights on the 2028 presidential election.
- Second Place: Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg with 16% support.
- Vice President Kamala Harris: Down to 11%, a 2-point drop since June.
Demographic Shifts
Governor Newsom’s rising popularity is not confined to a single demographic. His support has surged across various key groups:
- Under 30: Increased from 6% to 18% (+12 points)
- Over 70: Increased from 13% to 31% (+18 points)
- Black voters: Increased from 9% to 23% (+14 points)
- White voters: Increased from 10% to 24% (+14 points)
These demographic shifts indicate Newsom’s broadening appeal within the Democratic base.
Other Candidates and Undecided Voters
Many potential Democratic candidates lag behind Newsom:
- Gretchen Whitmer (MI)
- Bernie Sanders (VT)
- JB Pritzker (IL)
- Several more, all attracting less than 10% support.
Interestingly, almost as many respondents (3.1%) expressed a desire for “someone else” as voted for anti-establishment figure Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who received 4.1% support, with 16% remaining undecided.
Social Media Strategy: Humor Lines
To position himself as a leading Democratic opposition voice to Trump, Newsom has employed his social media platform to mock the former president. Notably, he recently tweeted:
"BECAUSE OF THE FACT THAT KID ROCK IS NOT IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF OUR GREAT STATE, I AM GIVING SERIOUS CONSIDERATION TO TAKING AWAY HIS RESIDENCY."
This clever jab exemplifies how Newsom is harnessing social media authority to boost his profile.
Redistricting and Fundraising
Mr. Newsom’s rising poll numbers coincide with his intensified national visibility, particularly in the ongoing redistricting disputes. Recently, Texas Republicans, under pressure from Trump, passed a new House map that could assist Republicans in gaining seats in future elections.
In response, California Democrats, led by Newsom, are preparing a counter-redistricting campaign aimed at offsetting these expected Republican gains. This push is part of a much larger fundraising effort, with Newsom raising over $12 million in just a few weeks to support this initiative.
- Funding Insights: Both supporters and opponents have mobilized significant resources, each securing more than $10 million. Political analysts estimate total campaign spending could surpass $100 million before the November 4 election.
The Bigger Picture: A Fight Against Authoritarianism
Governor Newsom frames the redistricting effort as a necessary stand against Trump’s perceived authoritarian agenda. Recently, he said:
“Wake up, we’re losing this country in real time. This is not bloviating. This is not exaggeration. It’s happening.”
Conclusion: An Open Field for 2028
Despite Newsom’s impressive lead in polling, the landscape for the Democratic primary remains open and competitive, with no candidate managing to secure half of the total voter support. As the political climate evolves, all eyes will be on how Newsom navigates this unique landscape leading up to the next election cycle.
For further insights into the 2028 election, visit Ballotpedia for more information on candidates and ongoing polls.
