California Governor Gavin Newsom is fast emerging as a formidable force in the early maneuvering for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, buoyed by a surge of enthusiasm and financial backing from Hollywood’s most influential donors. As reported by multiple outlets including Fox News, Deadline, and Daily Mail, Newsom’s assertive political style and recent legislative victories have ignited excitement among the entertainment industry’s liberal elite, setting the stage for what could be a highly competitive and crowded Democratic primary.
The energy surrounding Newsom’s potential candidacy has been palpable since the beginning of December 2025, with reports indicating that major Hollywood executives and deep-pocketed donors are already lining up to support him. Described by one longtime Democratic donor as “a fighter, that’s what we need!” Newsom’s combative approach—especially his willingness to take on former President Donald Trump both online and in policy—has won him admiration from those who see the party in need of a more forceful standard-bearer. “I just wish more Democrats, like Schumer and the leadership (in Congress), would emulate him, not take any s— from Trump,” the donor told Deadline.
Newsom’s reputation as a pugnacious critic of Trump has only grown in recent months. He has made headlines with his scathing social media posts, a strategy that has resonated with progressive donors who are eager for a Democratic leader willing to go toe-to-toe with the GOP. According to Fox News, Newsom recently declared, “Donald Trump poked the bear. And the bear roared back,” after the passage of Proposition 50—a redistricting amendment in California designed to counter Republican efforts in Texas. The measure, which passed easily on November 8, 2025, is expected to give Democrats up to five additional congressional seats in the state for the midterms and the 2028 presidential election.
Newsom’s willingness to embrace new media platforms has further endeared him to Hollywood and younger voters alike. He has launched his own podcast, inviting more conservative-leaning voices in an effort to appeal to a broader, more moderate base. Additionally, his presence on Substack and other platforms has allowed him to connect with supporters outside traditional channels, a move praised by agency executives and political strategists alike.
But it’s not just Newsom’s messaging that’s winning over Tinseltown. His policies have delivered tangible benefits to the entertainment industry. In a move that delighted film and television executives, Newsom more than doubled California’s film and television tax incentive program to $750 million annually this year. “He has certainly curried favor with Tinseltown over the years,” noted Daily Mail, referencing the $313 million handed out to television applicants just last month.
James Costos, an HBO executive and former U.S. Ambassador to Spain under President Obama, underscored the mounting excitement among Los Angeles donors: “Enthusiasm by L.A. donors is very strong and very encouraging, big checks are being written,” Costos told Deadline. He pointed to a slow but steady build of momentum following the Democratic Party’s bruising losses in the 2024 elections. “It was a slow build early on as we recovered from the loss in November, but there has been momentum building, No Kings events, legal wins, the Kimmel effect, resistance growing and it’s turning into clear ways to fight back against the administration’s overreach and organize to win in 2026 and 2028.”
Donna Bojarsky, a civic activist and political strategist, credited Newsom with capturing “the zeitgeist and spirit of the voters,” noting his willingness to take risks and his knack for reading the mood of the party’s base. She told Deadline, “No one wants to really dive into the presidential race yet, but I think people are deeply impressed and curious to see how the next months go.”
Despite the growing enthusiasm, there is a sense of caution among some donors and party insiders. Matthew Littman, a Democratic political consultant, observed, “People are waiting on this thing. I don’t think people are going to immediately jump on any campaign.” He warned against assuming Newsom has already locked up Hollywood’s support: “Everybody wants to find the person they think could win.”
The field for the 2028 Democratic nomination is expected to be crowded, with other prominent figures like Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and even 2024 nominee Kamala Harris reportedly considering bids. In recent weeks, both Beshear and Moore have traveled to Southern California to meet with donors, highlighting the importance of Hollywood’s support in the upcoming race.
Newsom himself has not shied away from discussing his presidential ambitions. In an October 2025 interview on CBS News Sunday Morning, he was asked directly if he was seriously considering a White House run. “Yeah, I’d be lying otherwise. I’d just be lying. And I can’t do that,” Newsom replied. He has indicated that he will make a decision after the 2026 midterms, but his actions—rallies, media appearances, and policy moves—signal a clear interest in national office.
Newsom’s assertive posture has not gone unnoticed by other political figures. Even HBO’s Bill Maher, known for his criticism of Democrats he sees as too far left, has praised Newsom’s approach. The governor’s handling of controversial issues—such as signing a bill prohibiting ICE agents from wearing masks and deploying the National Guard in Los Angeles—has further cemented his reputation as a leader willing to take bold, sometimes divisive, actions.
Of course, Newsom’s path to the presidency is not without obstacles. His tenure as California governor has not been free from controversy, including a well-publicized affair in 2005 and criticism for dining at a Michelin star restaurant during COVID shutdowns. Newsom has addressed these issues publicly, expressing regret and emphasizing his commitment to personal growth and public service. Despite these scandals, recent polls show Newsom leading Harris as a potential Democratic candidate in 2028 by up to 16 points, though some California voters have expressed concern that he is spending too much time boosting his national profile at the expense of state issues.
As the 2028 race begins to take shape, one thing is clear: Gavin Newsom has positioned himself as a leading contender, powered by Hollywood’s financial muscle and a reputation for political combativeness. Whether this early momentum will carry him through a crowded Democratic field remains to be seen, but for now, the spotlight—and the donor dollars—are firmly on California’s governor.
