Overview

• President Joe Biden, in a recent speech at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, praised California Governor Gavin Newsom and hinted at his potential for a presidential role.
• Newsom has been building a national profile, recently meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and preparing for a debate with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
• Despite Newsom's rising popularity and Biden's approval ratings facing a decline, Newsom has repeatedly denied any intentions of running against Biden.
• Newsom has been a major campaign surrogate for Biden, raising an estimated $4 million for the president's reelection effort since March.
• Concerns over Biden's age and competency have been rising, with recent polls showing a preference for a president in their 50s.