Newsom Signals 2028 Presidential Ambitions: “I’d Be Lying If I Said Otherwise”

Sacramento, CA — California Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed on Monday that he is seriously considering a run for president in 2028, saying he would be “lying” if he claimed otherwise.

In a candid interview, Newsom indicated that the 2026 midterm elections will play a major role in shaping his decision.

“I’m going to give it serious thought after the midterms,” Newsom said, hinting that the political landscape will determine whether he enters the national stage.

Newsom has long been a prominent figure in Democratic politics, frequently weighing in on national debates surrounding climate policy, healthcare, and voting rights. While speculation about a presidential bid has swirled for years, this marks one of the clearest confirmations from the governor himself.

Political analysts note that Newsom’s timing is strategic: waiting until after the 2026 midterms allows him to assess the Democratic Party’s performance and potential challenges before formally announcing a campaign.

Republicans, however, were quick to criticize Newsom for raising presidential aspirations while California faces ongoing challenges such as homelessness, housing affordability, and wildfire management.

“California needs a governor focused on running the state, not a campaign for the White House,” said one GOP strategist.

Democrats, meanwhile, are split. Supporters view Newsom as a media-savvy, progressive leader capable of energizing voters nationwide, while skeptics caution that his record in California may face scrutiny in swing states.

With the 2026 midterms looming, Newsom’s next moves will be closely watched by both allies and critics, as the question of whether he will trade the governor’s office for a shot at the presidency becomes more pressing.