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The California governor, a leading Democratic figure, has revealed that he plans to determine whether to seek the White House in 2028 after the 2026 elections conclude.

"Yes, I couldn't be truthful if I said no," Newsom stated when questioned about seriously considering a campaign for president after the 2026 elections. "That wouldn't be honest. And I can't do that."

The governor's time in office as California's leader ends in early 2027, and term limits prevent another run. However, he emphasized that any choice is not imminent.

"Fate will determine that," he said.

Increased Visibility as a Trump Critic

The California governor has stepped forward as a notable opponent of the Trump administration, using his online platforms and pushing a ballot measure that would expand Democratic House seats in as a counter to redistricting by Republicans. This strategy has invited attacks from adversaries.

Clash on Transportation

Donald Trump's transportation chief, Sean Duffy, claimed that the governor shows no concern about Californians in a weekend interview on a major news network. Duffy disclosed a strategy to cut federal funds from California and warned revoking the authority to grant commercial driver's licenses.

"I plan to withdraw a significant sum from the state," Duffy said, in the wake of a this week's fatal crash in the state involving an non-citizen trucker that led to fatalities and injured individuals.

The governor's team pointed out that the federal government had reauthorized the driver's employment repeatedly, which permitted him to obtain a commercial driver's license under U.S. law.

The transportation secretary had previously stated he was withholding $40m from California for ignoring English language requirements for commercial drivers.

Pointed Reply from the Governor's Office

"Former D-list reality star, now cabinet member, still doesn't understand federal law," Newsom's office retorted in a recent comment countering the secretary's comments. "Meanwhile, as opposed to this individual, we'll stick to the facts: The state's truck drivers had a death rate significantly lower than the national average. Texas – the single state with more commercial holders – has a rate markedly elevated than the state. Facts don't lie. This administration is dishonest."

Public Opinion and Political Future

A this month's study revealed that nearly three-quarters of Democratic voters and almost half of voters indicated that Newsom must consider running for president in 2028. After the current administration began, his approval ratings has grown to an typical level of about one-third from approximately 30%, while his disapproval has decreased from an average of more than 40% to current figures.

Some time ago, the governor stated while visiting several battleground states that he had "no clue" about his intentions for 2028.

He noted his past difficulties, including being diagnosed with dyslexia at the young age of five.

"The idea that a person who had modest test scores, who has ongoing difficulties with text, who was often seated at the back – that such a possibility is discussed is, by itself, amazing," he commented. "It's anyone's guess? I await who presents themselves in 2028 and who rises to the occasion. And that is the issue for the voters."