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The California governor, a leading member of the Democratic party, has indicated that he intends to determine whether to launch a presidential campaign in 2028 after the 2026 elections wrap up.

"Absolutely, I couldn't be truthful if I denied it," Newsom commented when pressed about contemplating a White House bid post the 2026 ballots. "I'd just be lying. And I'm not."

Newsom's current term as California's leader wraps up in January 2027, and term limits prevent another run. But, he noted that any determination is not imminent.

"Fate will determine that," he added.

Rising Profile as a Administration Opponent

He has stepped forward as a notable critic of the current federal leadership, using his online platforms and championing a ballot measure that would expand Democratic representation in Congress in following redistricting by Republicans. This move has drawn criticism from critics.

Federal Funding Dispute

Donald Trump's secretary of transportation, Sean Duffy, alleged that Newsom is indifferent about Californians in a recent appearance on Fox News. The secretary revealed plans to pull government money from the state and threatened eliminating the power to provide commercial driver's licenses.

"I intend to cut $160m from California," Duffy stated, in the wake of a this week's deadly accident in the state involving an undocumented commercial driver that led to three deaths and casualties.

His administration pointed out that the federal government had reauthorized the individual's authorization repeatedly, which permitted him to obtain a CDL under federal law.

Duffy had earlier stated he was holding back additional funds from California for failing to implement linguistic standards for commercial drivers.

Firm Rebuttal from the Team

"One-time television figure, now Secretary of Transportation, continues to misunderstand federal law," his administration responded in a recent release addressing the funding warnings. "Meanwhile, unlike this clown, we'll stick to the facts: The state's truck drivers had a death rate significantly lower than the U.S. average. The state of Texas – the single state with more commercial holders – has a rate almost 50% higher than California. Statistics are clear. This administration is dishonest."

Voter Sentiment and Campaign Considerations

A recent survey showed that a majority of the party and a significant portion of the electorate believed that Newsom ought to campaign for president in 2028. In recent years, public support for the governor has grown to an average of a third from approximately 30%, while his negative ratings has fallen from an typical level of more than 40% to under 40%.

Some time ago, Newsom remarked while traveling several key regions that he had "no clue" about his future for the next presidential election.

He also referenced his personal struggles, including being diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of five.

"The thought that a individual who got 960 on his SAT, who continues to find reading challenging, who was typically not at the front – that such a possibility is discussed is, alone, remarkable," he stated. "No one can say? I am eager to see who steps forward in 2028 and who answers the call. And that remains the key point for the American people."