Gavin Newsom's Strategic Role Behind Kamala Harris

Gavin Newsom's Role at the Democratic Convention

Gavin Newsom stood quietly on the sidelines of the packed United Center arena, hands in his suit pockets, as he watched state after state jubilantly declare support for Kamala Harris. Intentionally away from a swarm of news cameras, Newsom waited to emerge on the floor until it was his nationally televised turn in the spotlight to announce California’s votes for his longtime friend and political ally as the Democratic presidential nominee.

“I’ve got to say, on my life’s bingo card, you can’t make this one up,” Newsom said moments earlier as he made his way through the backstage of the arena down to the hall. A potent political cocktail of ambition, hard work, smarts, and a little luck allowed one Californian to cement her position in the most coveted role in the Democratic party this week, replacing President Biden at the top of the ticket.

The Democratic National Convention also marked the beginning of another star Golden State politician – and presidential contender – finding himself in an unfamiliar position in Harris' shadow. Newsom's presence in Chicago was unusually muted for the liberal leader of the most populous state in America as he tried to navigate his place behind Harris and his unclear role in supporting her campaign.

Newsom's Balancing Act

“He has to make sure that he conducts himself in a manner that recognizes his role and the fact that he's not the candidate,” said Jennifer Horn, former chair of the New Hampshire Republican Party and now a registered independent who opposes Donald Trump. “However, at the same time, if he wants to polish that image of himself as being a top-tier potential candidate in the future, then he also has to be a really enthusiastic supporter of Kamala Harris for president, and he can’t try to be clever about it.”

In an interview in the arena Thursday, Newsom said he's ready to jump in but described himself as...