Trump Leaves Newsom In The Dust
Despite some recent fluctuations in his job approval ratings, President Donald Trump continues to lead several prominent Democratic figures in overall popularity, according to a new national survey.
A new NBC News poll released Monday shows that 41 percent of respondents view Trump favorably, placing him ahead of several potential contenders who could challenge Republicans in the 2028 presidential election.
By comparison, former Vice President Kamala Harris received favorable ratings from 34 percent of those surveyed, while California Gov. Gavin Newsom came in even lower at 27 percent.
Both Harris and Newsom are widely discussed as potential Democratic presidential candidates in 2028, though neither has formally announced plans to run.
Harris Fuels Rumors of Another Presidential Campaign
Speculation surrounding Harris intensified recently after she revived her KamalaHQ social media accounts and released a new book discussing her 2024 election loss to President Trump.
The former vice president also reportedly considered entering California’s gubernatorial race last year when rumors circulated that she might replace Newsom. However, she ultimately decided against pursuing the position. Newsom is term-limited and cannot run again.
Still, Harris has not closed the door on another presidential campaign. During a February interview with podcaster Sharon McMahon, she acknowledged that she “might” consider another White House run in the future.
Newsom Emerges as One of Trump’s Loudest Critics
Meanwhile, Governor Newsom has positioned himself as one of the most outspoken critics of the Trump administration.
The California governor has frequently challenged Trump’s policies in media appearances and political speeches, increasing speculation that he may be preparing for a national campaign.
However, Newsom has said that family considerations will play a major role in deciding whether he eventually launches a presidential bid.
Trump Still Leads Possible GOP Contenders
The survey also measured favorability ratings for several Republican leaders who could play major roles in future elections.
According to the poll:
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio received a 34 percent favorable rating
- Vice President JD Vance earned 38 percent favorability
Both remain behind President Trump in the survey.
Neither Rubio nor Vance has officially entered the 2028 presidential race, but Trump has previously praised both men as strong political leaders.
At one point, the president even suggested that a Rubio–Vance ticket could be “unstoppable,” although he declined to say which candidate should lead the ticket.
Trump Leaves Door Open to Third Term Talk
President Trump has also refused to completely dismiss speculation that he could seek a third term in the White House, though such a move would require a constitutional amendment.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One last October, Trump said the idea was not something he had seriously focused on but noted his strong support among voters.
“I haven’t really thought about it,” Trump said at the time. “We have some very good people, as you know… but I have the best poll numbers that I’ve ever had.”
Poll Methodology
The NBC News survey was conducted between February 27 and March 3 and included 1,000 respondents nationwide. The poll carries a margin of error of approximately 3.1 percentage points.
While the 2028 presidential election is still years away, early polling like this continues to show one clear trend: Donald Trump remains a dominant figure in American politics and still outpaces several potential challengers in public favorability.
