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Newsom Eyes 2028: Pelosi Orchestrates Potential Campaign

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/1 .. 2028-pelosi-orchestrates-potential-campaign.html
  Published in House and Home on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 10:17 GMT by New York Post
      Locales: California, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, UNITED STATES

Washington D.C. - February 16th, 2026 - Despite repeated denials, California Governor Gavin Newsom is increasingly seen as a leading contender for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is emerging as a key architect of a potential campaign. Sources close to both politicians confirm Pelosi is actively working to position Newsom for a run, engaging in fundraising, providing strategic counsel, and offering public endorsements - all signals that Newsom's ambition extends beyond Sacramento.

This behind-the-scenes maneuvering comes at a pivotal moment for the Democratic party. With President Biden expected to retire after a potential second term (ending in January 2025), the field is wide open. While Vice President Kamala Harris is the presumptive frontrunner, her approval ratings have remained stubbornly low, creating an opening for alternative candidates. Several prominent figures, including Governors Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan and J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, are also considered potential rivals, but Newsom, with Pelosi's support, is rapidly gaining momentum.

Pelosi's involvement isn't simply a matter of endorsing a candidate; it's a full-fledged effort to build a viable campaign infrastructure. Her decades of experience navigating the complexities of national politics, coupled with her unparalleled fundraising network, are invaluable assets. "She believes Gavin has what it takes to lead the country," a source revealed to The Post earlier this year. "She's been working behind the scenes to lay the groundwork for a campaign."

Newsom, currently 57, has consistently maintained that he is focused on his duties as Governor of California, particularly on issues like addressing the state's homelessness crisis, combating climate change, and managing the ongoing water scarcity. However, his subtle but consistent critiques of President Biden's age and political approach have fueled speculation about his wider ambitions. These comments, while seemingly innocuous, are interpreted by many as an attempt to subtly differentiate himself from the current administration and position himself as a younger, more dynamic alternative.

Pelosi's support isn't just about fundraising. She is reportedly advising Newsom on key policy positions, crafting a narrative that appeals to a broad range of Democratic voters, and identifying potential vulnerabilities of other candidates. This strategic guidance is crucial in a modern presidential campaign, where messaging and media management are paramount. She is also leveraging her extensive network to recruit top political strategists and campaign staff for Newsom's potential bid.

The timing of Pelosi's increased involvement is noteworthy. With the 2026 midterm elections looming, the Democratic party is eager to establish a strong foundation for the 2028 presidential race. By actively supporting Newsom now, Pelosi aims to create a sense of inevitability around his candidacy, discouraging other potential challengers and consolidating support within the party.

However, Newsom's path to the nomination won't be without obstacles. He faces scrutiny over California's high cost of living, its complex regulatory environment, and ongoing challenges related to homelessness and wildfires. Opponents are likely to paint him as an elitist out of touch with the concerns of everyday Americans. Furthermore, he will have to address criticisms regarding his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the state's controversial energy policies. Kamala Harris, should she decide to run, presents a formidable opponent, benefiting from the backing of the White House and a significant degree of name recognition.

The response from the Biden-Harris camp has been muted, but sources indicate a degree of concern. While publicly dismissing the notion of a primary challenge, the White House is quietly monitoring Newsom's activities and preparing to respond should he officially enter the race. The potential for a divisive primary battle could damage the Democratic party's chances of winning the presidency in 2028, a risk that both Pelosi and Newsom are acutely aware of.

As of today, Newsom's office and Pelosi's representatives have not responded to requests for comment, maintaining a strategic silence that only amplifies the speculation. But the signs are clear: Nancy Pelosi is betting on Gavin Newsom, and the 2028 Democratic presidential race is already taking shape.