Right-wing commentator and former Fox News host Tucker Carlson said Tuesday that President Donald Trump is notably worried about one Democratic candidate for 2028: California Governor Gavin Newsom. Carlson made the remarks during an appearance on Alex Jones' show, asserting that Trump is convinced Newsom has a real shot at the presidency.
Carlson, who has recently distanced himself from Trump, described Newsom's perceived advantage in unflattering terms. “He’s a sociopath who will say anything while passing a lie detector test,” Carlson said, suggesting Newsom's ability to deceive without detection is a political asset. Carlson did not elaborate on the basis for his claim about Trump's concerns.
Carlson’s Shifting Political Allegiances
During the interview, Alex Jones asked Carlson if he would run for president himself in 2028. Carlson declined, stating, “I don’t want to run for president. I do want to be involved in offering an option of some kind.” He remained vague about what form that involvement might take, though he hinted at a desire to influence the political landscape outside of traditional candidacy.
Carlson's relationship with Trump has soured significantly since the 2024 election. Carlson actively campaigned for Trump and spoke at the Republican National Convention, but later publicly attacked the president over key decisions, particularly the war in Iran. In an April interview with The Wall Street Journal, Carlson said, “I feel betrayed,” and apologized to voters for “misleading” them with his endorsement. Trump has retaliated by calling Carlson “a low-IQ person.”
Newsom’s National Profile
Gavin Newsom has long been considered a potential presidential contender, frequently clashing with Trump on issues like climate change, immigration, and healthcare. Trump has repeatedly targeted Newsom on social media, deriding his handling of California's wildfires and homelessness crisis. Despite Carlson's characterization, Newsom has not formally announced a 2028 bid, though he has taken steps to raise his national profile, including debates with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and international trips.
Carlson’s comments add to the ongoing speculation about the 2028 Democratic field, which may also include figures like Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. Meanwhile, Carlson’s own political future remains uncertain, as he continues to criticize Trump while exploring alternative conservative movements.
