Newsom campaigns for Biden, aims to boost national profile.

Gov. Gavin Newsom Hits the Campaign Trail to Boost Biden’s Reelection

Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) is embarking on an exciting campaign trail adventure, traveling to Republican-heavy states to rally Democrats and ignite voter turnout for the 2024 elections. But here’s the twist: Newsom isn’t seeking votes for himself. Instead, he’s on a mission to amplify President Joe Biden’s bid for a second term in the White House.

Building Momentum in Unlikely Places

Newsom kicked off his multistate journey during the holiday weekend, making a stop in Idaho to address Democratic voters. In a state that has consistently voted for Republican presidential candidates since 1964, his task may seem like a long shot. However, Newsom highlighted the cultural discussions taking place in Idaho, such as abortion access and LGBT rights, emphasizing that Biden is the best choice to safeguard against regressive policies.

“I’m really proud of this president, and I hope you are as well,” Newsom said, according to the Los Angeles Times.

While Newsom’s primary goal is to energize Biden’s base, his efforts may also bolster his own national standing as he contemplates a future run for higher office. Despite repeatedly denying any plans to run for president, Newsom’s presence during his state visits has garnered attention from Democratic voters, enhancing his name recognition and potentially benefiting him down the line.

“He’s putting in time and effort that no one else outside the White House appears to be,” said Rob Stutzman, a Republican consultant in California. “He’s acting like the candidate-in-waiting. Someday it may pay off for him.”

Newsom’s Rising Recognition and Potential

Newsom’s national recognition has been soaring in recent months, with polls indicating that he could be a formidable contender for the Democratic presidential nomination if he decides to enter the race. In a recent YouGov-Yahoo News survey, Newsom narrowly outperformed former President Donald Trump in a hypothetical matchup, winning 40% to 39%.

The same poll also showed Newsom defeating Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) by a margin of 39% to 36% in a head-to-head battle for the 2024 election.

However, despite his growing popularity, a majority of voters in California have expressed opposition to Newsom’s presidential aspirations. According to a Quinnipiac University poll conducted in March, about 70% of California voters, including a majority of Democrats, believe Newsom should not run for president, compared to only 22% who support his candidacy. Among likely Democratic voters, more than half, 54%, said he shouldn’t run.

For months, rumors have circulated that Newsom is running a shadow presidential campaign, just in case Biden decides not to seek reelection. While Newsom has consistently denied challenging Biden in a Democratic primary, he has refrained from definitively stating whether he would run if the president were to drop out.

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