As the Democratic Party grapples with the aftermath of President Joe Biden’s lackluster debate performance, whispers of a potential replacement have begun to circulate. California Governor Gavin Newsom, who was in Atlanta to act as a surrogate for the Biden campaign, is reportedly at the top of the list of potential candidates.
Newsom’s involvement in the campaign has sparked speculation that he may be considering a run for the presidency himself. However, his chances of success appear slim, according to recent polls. A March Rasmussen Reports survey found that 51 percent of respondents would vote for former President Donald Trump over Newsom in a head-to-head matchup, while only 34 percent favored the California governor.
Similarly, a February Emerson College Polling survey showed that Trump would defeat Newsom by 10 points (46 percent to 36) in a hypothetical race. A November Fox News poll also found that Trump would beat Newsom 49 to 45 percent in the race to the White House.
Despite these dismal prospects, Newsom has publicly expressed his support for Biden, stating that he believes the president is capable of leading the country for another four years. “I spent a lot of time with him. I know Joe Biden, I know what he’s accomplished in the last three and a half years. I know what he’s capable of. And I have no trepidations,” Newsom said when asked about rumors he will replace the 80-year-old president.
He reiterated his confidence in Biden’s ability to win the election, saying, “He’s going to win this election.”