Commentary: Newsom and Harris weigh 2028 contest -- and possible collision

A looming 2028 presidential contest could force Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris into direct competition, the article argues, ending years of tacit rivalry among two prominent Democrats from San Francisco. Newsom, nearing the end of his final term as California governor, said he would not run if Harris chooses to do so, calling such a matchup “mutual assured destruction” and a “waste of everyone’s time.” The piece suggests that stance may have the opposite effect by allowing Harris to delay a decision. Harris would have advantages like high name recognition and fundraising support. However, the nomination race may not fully settle until it’s clear whether she’s in.