Is California Governor Gavin Newsom actually Biden's secret weapon against Republican Governors running for president?
Florida governor Ron DeSantis, who officially launched his Republican presidential campaign in May, is planning to debate the California governor Gavin Newsom, who is viewed as a potential future Democratic presidential contender for 2028.
For Newsom and Biden, this can turn into the perfect storm. For DeSantis, it seems like it brings more trouble than good. DeSantis' campaign has undergone a month-long revamp since its beginning as a concerning contrast for some President Joe Biden advisers.
Newsom would have drawn the scoffs and skepticism of many within and outside the White House a year ago. Now, he works with Biden's staff to prod the Republicans into further difficulties.
Newsom is aware Republicans will use him as their go-to bogeyman. And he seems ready to fight off the attack.
Why does DeSantis agree to this debate?
According to Newsom, the whole point of the debate is asymmetric warfare. He is not seeking the presidency. And if the debate does take place, Newsom only sees benefits. Best case scenario: He defeats DeSantis, hindering his chance at winning the primaries.
Worst case scenario: DeSantis has his moment, but it's against someone not running for president and can deflect attacks that may have otherwise been directed at Biden.
DeSantis wanted to challenge former President Donald Trump during his major debate, not Newsom.
The governor has attempted to unite Republican support, but as Trump's poll ratings grow, he has not been successful at accomplishing his goal.
DeSantis has stumbled through the summer instead of stepping into the fall in a position of power.
DeSantis' campaign also underestimated how Trump's several indictments would incite Republicans and overshadow the GOP race. Trump may become the first presidential nominee to run from prison.
What do you think about Newsom vs. DeSantis debate?
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