Overview
- Los Angeles power donors are showing fresh enthusiasm, with multiple Hollywood executives saying big checks are being written for Democratic politics as Newsom’s appeal grows.
- Recent polling cited by multiple outlets places Newsom ahead of other potential Democratic contenders, including a RealClearPolitics average showing him leading Kamala Harris.
- Newsom’s national profile has been elevated by high-visibility moves, including lawsuits challenging Trump-era policies and a successful push for Proposition 50 to redraw California’s congressional maps in Democrats’ favor.
- Skeptics question his authenticity and electability, with Republican strategist Scott Jennings dismissing his prospects and a recent poll showing a close hypothetical matchup against Vice President J.D. Vance.
- The race to replace Newsom as California governor remains wide open, with dozens of candidates filed, low name recognition across the field, and many voters still undecided.