Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, is emerging as a potential leader for the Democratic Party, especially as Donald Trump begins his second term. A recent survey conducted by Punchbowl News and LSG revealed that approximately 75% of both Democratic and Republican insiders view Newsom as their preferred choice for party leadership. This sentiment has been consistent across three monthly surveys from October to March. Newsom's national profile has been bolstered by his speeches criticizing the Trump administration and his active engagement on social media, where he has mocked Trump’s posting style.

Despite a positive shift in his approval rating to +2 points, a survey from Saint Anselm College indicated a decline in his support among early voters in New Hampshire’s Democratic primary, dropping to 15%, down 9 points since November. Newsom has expressed that he is considering a presidential run in 2028, but he emphasizes that family comes first. His ongoing public disputes with Trump have kept him in the spotlight, with both leaders exchanging barbs over various issues, including energy prices and personal attacks.