Trump mocks Gavin Newsom, claims he ‘dropped out’ of 2028 presidential race

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump took aim at California Governor Gavin Newsom over the weekend, joking that the Democrat had “just dropped out of the presidential race” following recent comments about his political future.

Although he has not officially announced a campaign, Newsom has long been considered a potential Democratic candidate in the upcoming presidential cycle.

In a recent interview, Newsom reiterated his focus on California and declined to commit to a 2028 run, downplaying any immediate plans to seek the presidency. 

Trump mocks Gavin Newsom over 2028 presidential race remarks

President Donald Trump’s post framed Gavin Newsom’s caution as a political retreat, despite the governor never formally entering the race.

The president has repeatedly criticized Newsom’s leadership in California, targeting the state’s policies on immigration, homelessness, and energy as evidence of what he describes as failed Democratic governance. “Wow! Gavin Newscum just dropped out of the Presidential Race!!!” Trump wrote, using a nickname he has frequently deployed against the governor.

The remark came shortly after Newsom addressed speculation about a potential 2028 White House bid during a media appearance tied to his ongoing national book tour.

The exchange underscores the ongoing rivalry between the two prominent political figures.

One of President Trump’s most outspoken opponents, Newsom has regularly questioned the administration’s trade, healthcare, and climate policies. Trump has responded by portraying Newsom as a prime example of what he claims is liberal overreach.

Newsom weighs 2028 presidential bid with family input

Although he has not declared a campaign, Newsom recently answered questions about a potential presidential run. He avoided making firm commitments about his future plans and instead focused on his current duties as governor.

Newsom has been open about his interest in the 2028 presidential race. Kamala Harris opted not to run to succeed him as California governor but has left open the possibility of a third presidential bid.

In a recent interview, Newsom emphasized that he would carefully weigh any decision to run for president with his family.

Asked whether his family supported the idea, Newsom responded, “I don’t know. It depends on the day.” He also shared concerns from one of his sons about a potential presidential bid.

“My son … it was very powerful, texted me a few months ago when there was some headline that suggested that I made some decision, and he goes, ‘Dad, are you running (for) president?” Newsom said.

He continued, “I said, no, we’ll make this decision as a family. And he goes, you can’t. And I said, why? He goes, ‘I’m too young. You need to spend more time with us.’ “I mean, how do you deal with that one?” he said.