Gavin Newsom Teases Possible 2028 VP Pick

Still, home-state sentiment offers early insight into how a candidate’s leadership is perceived by those who know them best.

Newsom’s approval rating as governor remains positive — slightly higher than the number who want him to run — suggesting his leadership within California is viewed more favorably than his potential national ambitions.

Most voters say he’s focused on both state and national issues, but fewer believe he’s paying attention to their local concerns.

By comparison, enthusiasm for former Vice President Kamala Harris was far lower at that time.

Fewer than a third of California voters — and just under half of Democrats — believe Harris should run again.

She previously represented California in the U.S. Senate and carried the state during her 2024 campaign.