Democrats have indicated that California Governor Gavin Newsom is poised to become the next president, promising "payback" for actions taken by former President Donald Trump. This assertion comes amid criticism of Newsom's leadership in California, where the state reportedly leads the nation in unemployment, homelessness, and poverty under his administration. Some opponents have also accused Newsom of being aligned with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Meanwhile, media personalities like Geraldo Rivera have expressed support for Newsom as a potential Democratic presidential candidate in 2028. The political discourse around Newsom includes both endorsements and sharp criticisms, reflecting the contentious nature of his prospective presidential ambitions.