Speculation Mounts as California Governor Tours Early Primary State Amidst Harris’ Undecided Future
Democratic South Carolina Rep. Jim Clyburn, a revered figure often dubbed a “kingmaker” within the Democratic Party, publicly expressed his optimism on Tuesday regarding California Governor Gavin Newsom’s prospects for the 2028 presidential election.
Clyburn’s comments, reported by Politico, came during an event hosted by South Carolina’s Democratic Party, where he referred to Newsom as one of “these candidates that are running for president.”
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“It’s no secret,” Clyburn told reporters after the event. “I feel good about his [Newsom’s] chances.” The remarks from Clyburn, whose endorsement of then-candidate Joe Biden proved pivotal in the 2020 South Carolina primary, immediately fueled growing speculation that Newsom is laying the groundwork for a White House bid in 2028.
Newsom’s presence in the early primary state, and Clyburn’s warm reception, signal a potential shift in the Democratic landscape for the next presidential cycle. The California Governor himself, however, trod carefully on the topic of future runs, particularly when asked about former Vice President Kamala Harris, whom Clyburn famously called “my girl” during her 2024 campaign.
During the event, Newsom acknowledged that he felt he “could have done a bit extra” to bolster Harris’ failed 2024 White House campaign. Yet, he remained noncommittal on whether he would support Harris if she were to launch another presidential bid in 2028 or pursue California’s governorship in 2026. “Let’s figure out which,” Newsom stated, adding, “We’ll see what decisions she makes.”
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Harris is reportedly deliberating her next political move, with options including a 2026 gubernatorial run to succeed the term-limited Newsom or another shot at the presidency in 2028. Recent reports suggest a degree of “unenthusiasm” among some Democrats regarding a potential Harris gubernatorial bid, potentially opening doors for other contenders.
Clyburn’s influential voice in South Carolina, a state with significant weight in the Democratic primary process due to its diverse electorate and early position, lends considerable credence to Newsom’s burgeoning national profile. As the 2028 cycle begins to take shape, all eyes will be on the moves of both Newsom and Harris as the Democratic Party looks to its future leadership.
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