Harris and Newsom unite in LA to support Becerra, leaving 2028 rivalry unresolved
Former Vice President Kamala Harris and California Governor Gavin Newsom appeared together in Los Angeles on Sunday to support Democratic gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra. While the event showcased a unified front for the California Democrats, it offered little clarity on their potential 2028 presidential rivalry. The campaign focused on voter turnout and affordability, with Becerra blaming federal policies for rising costs, while Republican opponent Steve Hilton proposed significant tax cuts.
Key points
- Harris and Newsom, both weighing 2028 presidential runs, campaigned together for the first time this year at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles.
- The event supported Xavier Becerra, the Democratic candidate seeking to succeed Newsom as California governor, ahead of Tuesday's election.
- Becerra emphasized affordability, blaming federal tariffs and the Iran conflict for high gas and grocery prices, and pledged to improve healthcare spending efficiency.
- Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton proposed eliminating state income tax on the first $150,000 of earnings, a plan estimated to cost $25 billion.
- The appearance was described as a show of unity, but observers noted it provided few hints about how the two potential presidential rivals will navigate their future relationship.
Background
Harris and Newsom have been seen as potential rivals for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, with internal party anxiety persisting regarding Harris's 2024 loss. Newsom's support in some states has declined, and both figures have maintained a low profile regarding their 2028 ambitions. This joint appearance follows a period of strategic ambiguity, where aides and donors signaled Harris might opt out of a presidential run, while Newsom positioned himself for a primary that may exclude her.
How outlets are covering it
The Washington Post highlighted the unified front displayed by Harris and Newsom, contrasting it with the struggles of Democrats elsewhere. The New York Times noted that while the two are longtime friends, their potential 2028 rivalry remains unresolved, with the event offering little insight into their future dynamics. Yahoo and 10News.com focused on the local impact, detailing Becerra's push for voter turnout in San Diego County and his critique of federal policies driving up costs. 10News.com also contrasted Becerra's approach with Steve Hilton's proposal for a major tax cut, highlighting the affordability debate as a central issue in the gubernatorial race.
Why it matters
The joint appearance signals a temporary truce between two high-profile Democratic figures, potentially influencing the 2028 presidential landscape. It also underscores the importance of the California gubernatorial race, where affordability and voter turnout are key issues. The outcome could shape the state's political direction and impact national Democratic strategy.
What to watch
Voters in California will cast their ballots on Tuesday, with all vote centers open until 8 p.m. The results will determine the next governor and potentially influence the 2028 presidential race. Observers will watch for any further public appearances or statements from Harris and Newsom that might clarify their 2028 intentions.
- Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsom, weighing 2028 runs, rally together in California The Washington Post
- Newsom and Harris Appear Together, With Little Hint of What’s to Come The New York Times
- Xavier Becerra joins San Diego County Democrats for get-out-the-vote rally in Oceanside Yahoo
- Becerra makes final pitch to Oceanside voters on Sunday before Election Day 10News.com
- Becerra Joins Top California Democrats at ‘Stop the Power Grab’ Rally in Los Angeles NBC Palm Springs
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