Newsom Leads Early Democratic Polls
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has emerged as an early frontrunner for Democrats in the 2028 presidential race.
A Yahoo News/YouGov survey found him at 21%, ahead of Kamala Harris (19%),
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (12%), and Pete Buttigieg (10%).
Weak National Ratings
Despite leading the Democratic field, Newsom struggles nationally.
A Cygnal poll gave him a net approval of -5. He fares poorly with non-college voters,
who disapprove 48% to 27%, and trails swing voters by 12 points.
Key Constituencies at Risk
Analysts warn, “early polling hints at Newsom’s weak spots with key constituencies,
particularly non-college voters and independents.”
He also faces disapproval among college-educated men, highly active voters, and some religious Black Democrats.
Controversy Online
Newsom’s team drew criticism after posting, “Kristi Noem is going to have a bad day today.
You’re welcome, America.” The remark was referred to the Secret Service.