Some Biden advisers are concerned over California Gov. Gavin Newsom's plan to debate Florida Gov. and GOP presidential candidate Ron DeSantis.
Newsom has stated that he is not planning a presidential run but his efforts carry risks for Biden and his 2024 run for reelection.
Some Biden advisers have complained privately that the planned debate could make voters think Newsom is running a shadow 2024 campaign at a time when most Democrats say they’d prefer a different candidate at the top of the ticket. https://t.co/wue3UtymiV
— Yahoo News (@YahooNews) August 28, 2023
"Some Biden advisers have complained privately that the planned debate, which Fox News host Sean Hannity would moderate, could make voters think Newsom is running a shadow 2024 campaign at a time when most Democrats say they’d prefer a different candidate at the top of the ticket," NBC News reported.
"They also argue that it could elevate DeSantis, whom White House advisers initially perceived as a greater threat to Biden’s re-election hopes than the GOP front-runner, former President Donald Trump," it added.
He’s running. https://t.co/UStyRYxcNe
— James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) August 28, 2023
"The debate has been viewed in an even more negative light by those in Harris' orbit, with some reportedly seeing it as an attempt by the California governor to position himself ahead of the vice president for the 2028 Democratic presidential primary," Fox News reported.
"Newsom made the standing challenge to debate DeSantis this month, an invitation that was seemingly accepted by the Florida governor. But the two camps have yet to agree on the rules and format, calling into question whether the event will go ahead as planned," it continued.
The debate is expected to take place on Fox News and be hosted by Sean Hannity. While some believe Newsom is building a shadow campaign, he may simply be looking ahead to a 2028 run instead.
DeSantis offers a strong contrast with Newsom's leftist leadership, emphasizing freedom from federal government mandates and interference.
The Florida governor came to prominence over his response against Biden's pandemic lockdowns, leading the state to a solid conservative majority in the 2022 elections.
DeSantis hopes to take on Newsom to help bridge the gap with former President Donald Trump who continues to dominate current GOP polls.
