Newsom Backs Out of 2028 Presidential Bid Against Harris

Gavin Newsom, in an unusual fly-fishing interview with CNN's Jake Tapper, stated that a primary fight against Vice President Kamala Harris would result in "mutually assured destruction." Newsom argued that the significant overlap among their political supporters and networks would only benefit other candidates in a primary contest.

He reiterated this stance, questioning why he would do so and emphasizing that he "wouldn't do that to her."

Newsom continued to elaborate on his decision, asserting that a primary challenge would be a waste of everyone's time and serve "no greater good." He suggested that such a fight would be an "electoral gift from God for everybody else," benefiting opposing candidates by creating internal party conflict.

I know her friends." He described the "Zen diagram" of their support as "just pure crossover," reinforcing his view that a primary would fragment their collective strength.

John Solomon, editor-in-chief for Just the News, joined the discussion to offer his analysis on Newsom's announcement. The host also light-heartedly inquired about Solomon's thoughts on Newsom's fly-fishing form during the interview.

Solomon, while joking about Newsom's fly-fishing skills, quickly pivoted to suggest that there's a "bigger" underlying issue influencing Newsom's decision. He stated that recent reporting has begun to reveal the outlines of these significant developments concerning the governor.

This development is beginning to unfold with recent reports.

The investigation includes a former top aide to Newsom who has already secured a plea deal, ongoing grand jury activity, and efforts to obtain records from a nonprofit that funded much of Newsom's foreign travel. Additionally, Solomon noted scrutiny into some of Newsom's dealings with entities like China and President Xi.

Solomon argued that Newsom's political momentum, which appeared strong a few years ago, has diminished due to these serious legal issues. He suggested that the shine has come off the "Newsom juggernaut" because of these ongoing problems.

Despite believing Newsom would have a strong chance against Harris, who had a "very weak 2024 election," Solomon suggested Newsom is creating a plausible excuse for not challenging her. This allows him to avoid a high-profile primary while dealing with his legal baggage.

Solomon explained that Newsom's reluctance to exercise a "killer instinct" and unite the party under his leadership is because of "baggage" tied to the FBI, the Justice Department, and ongoing investigations. This legal pressure forms a crucial subtext to his public statements about Harris.

The host commented that Newsom's public stance also benefits him by presenting him as a benevolent figure and a team player within the party. This image helps him avoid appearing as the cause of internal problems.

When asked if these developments ensure Kamala Harris's nomination, Solomon disagreed, predicting a significant internal struggle in 2028 for the "heart and soul of the Democratic party." He foresees a contentious battle over who will represent the socialists and moderates within the party.

Solomon suggested that the outcome of the 2026 election will dictate whether the Democratic Party shifts away from its socialist trends or doubles down on them. This internal conflict could lead to a "strong civil war" within the party, with factions vying for its future direction.

Solomon asserted that Kamala Harris is unlikely to have a clear path to nomination. He pointed out that the issues that hindered her 2024 campaign, such as her rhetoric, nervousness, unevenness in describing things, and "word salads," have not dissipated over the past couple of years.

Solomon emphasized that Harris's recent interviews continue to demonstrate these weaknesses, suggesting she remains vulnerable. He believes that if he were Gavin Newsom or anyone with similar skills, Harris would appear "inevitably beatable."

He believes that several candidates will "jump in and take a shot at her" in the 2028 election cycle.

The host thanked John Solomon for his insightful analysis, acknowledging the brevity of the segment but expressing appreciation for his contributions to the discussion.