Governor Gavin Newsom is heading to New Hampshire next month, a state steeped in presidential history as the site of the nation’s first primary. The visit, centered around a presentation of his new book, “Young Man in a Hurry,” at the Portsmouth Music Hall on March 5th, is fueling speculation about his future ambitions.
This trip isn’t simply a book tour stop; it’s a calculated move by a rising star within the Democratic party. Newsom’s profile has dramatically increased over the past year, largely due to his direct and often provocative challenges to his political opponents.
His willingness to confront opposing viewpoints, coupled with successful political maneuvering in California – notably countering Republican redistricting efforts – has positioned him as a formidable figure. Observers believe this boldness resonates with a party seeking a strong leader.
Newsom has been actively engaging with key players in early primary states. During the Democratic National Committee’s winter meeting in Los Angeles last December, he was treated as a VIP, holding discussions with party leaders from New Hampshire and Nevada.
These conversations weren’t casual; they focused on a broad range of issues, signaling a serious consideration of a potential presidential run. New Hampshire’s Democratic Party Chair described the discussions as “great,” hinting at a strategic exchange of ideas.
Newsom himself hasn’t dismissed the possibility of a 2028 bid. He’s openly acknowledged he’ll “seriously consider” a run after the 2026 midterms, admitting it would be disingenuous to claim otherwise.
He’s not alone in eyeing the White House. A crowded field of potential Democratic contenders is already making inroads in key early states like New Hampshire, Nevada, and South Carolina, actively courting activists and donors.
Fundraising efforts are already underway, with activists reporting a steady stream of solicitations from various hopefuls. This early groundwork is crucial, as New Hampshire’s political landscape demands candidates connect directly with local activists and understand their priorities.
Experienced New Hampshire Democrats emphasize the importance of early engagement. Successful candidates invest time in building relationships and demonstrating a commitment to the state’s unique concerns.
Newsom’s previous visit to New Hampshire last July was to bolster President Biden following a challenging debate. He served as a key surrogate for both Biden and, later, Vice President Kamala Harris, who emerged as a potential successor.
Harris, also currently promoting a book, is herself contemplating a 2028 run, adding another layer of intrigue to the unfolding Democratic contest. The field is diverse and ambitious.
Governors from Illinois, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Maryland, and Michigan are all considered potential candidates, alongside Senators from New Jersey, Arizona, and Connecticut. Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ro Khanna represent the progressive wing, while figures like Pete Buttigieg and Rahm Emanuel offer a more moderate approach.
The coming months will be critical as these potential contenders vie for support and lay the groundwork for what promises to be a fiercely contested battle for the Democratic nomination.
