Recent polling data and market odds indicate California Governor Gavin Newsom is gaining momentum as a leading contender for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination. Multiple polls from August 2025 show Newsom's support among California Democrats rising, with a notable increase to 25% in the California Democratic primary, surpassing former Vice President Kamala Harris, who holds 19%. Nationally, Newsom's favorability and polling numbers have also improved, with Echelon Insights reporting a 13% favorability rating and Polymarket placing his chances of securing the Democratic nomination at 30%, the highest among potential candidates. Newsom's support among California Democrats who want him to run for president surged to 75%, a 40-point increase. Other Democratic contenders include Pete Buttigieg, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Cory Booker, and others, but none have matched Newsom's recent gains. Newsom has also informally launched his 2028 presidential campaign on social media, including releasing campaign merchandise reminiscent of former President Trump's style. Despite his rising profile, some commentators question the viability of his candidacy on a national scale. Overall, the data reflects a shift in Democratic primary dynamics, with Newsom emerging as a prominent front-runner, particularly in his home state of California.