Newsom Won't Run for President if Harris Does

Newsom told CNN's Jake Tapper he would step aside if Harris sought the presidency again. "I wouldn't run if she ran," he said.

• Newsom called a dual candidacy "mutually assured destruction" serving no greater good.
• Tapper noted Harris has run twice; Newsom acknowledged that would be a strong campaign argument.
• 2 of Newsom's 4 children, ages 10–17, currently oppose a presidential run.
• Federal investigators are probing Newsom's finances and his wife's taxes.

Why it matters: Newsom has been viewed as a top 2028 prospect since the 2024 cycle. His pledge narrows the Democratic field — but only if Harris actually runs.

• Many analysts view a third Harris run as nearly certain, per Washington Examiner reporting.

How 33 sources split on this story

What’s next: Harris has made no formal announcement about a 2028 candidacy.

• Investigators have subpoenaed records tied to Newsom's travel and nonprofit funding.
• Will Harris announce a 2028 run, and would Newsom hold to this pledge if she does?
• How will the federal investigations affect Newsom's political standing regardless of who else runs?