Kamala Harris is back! Ex-VP surges ahead of Gavin Newsom in early Presidential primary race

The early contours of the 2028 Democratic race are beginning to shift. A new poll suggests a subtle but meaningful change in voter preference at the top of the field. Former Vice President Kamala Harris has moved ahead of California Governor Gavin Newsom, reversing last month’s numbers and signaling a fresh dynamic among likely Democratic voters, as per a report by Newsweek.

While the race remains distant, the latest data hints at changing perceptions around leadership and electability.



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Why has the lead shifted between Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsom?

A fresh March 2026 survey from Echelon Insights shows a narrow lead for Harris among likely Democratic voters. She stands at 21 percent support, just ahead of Newsom at 19 percent.

The change is notable because it reverses February’s standings. In that earlier poll, Newsom led with 24 percent, while Harris followed at 18 percent.

The numbers point to movement on both sides. Harris has gained three points since February, while Newsom has dropped five. Together, that shift has been enough to flip their positions at the top.

The survey, conducted between March 12 and March 16 among 1,033 likely voters, carries a margin of error of plus or minus 3.4 percentage points, as per a report by Newsweek.

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How do other Democratic contenders compare?

Beyond the top two, support remains spread across several familiar names. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ranks third with 11 percent backing. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg follows at 9 percent.

Further down, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro registers 5 percent support. Senators Cory Booker and Mark Kelly each receive 4 percent.

A notable 12 percent of respondents remain undecided, underscoring how fluid the field still is.

Compared to February, most candidates have seen only modest changes. The broader picture shows a fragmented race, with no one beyond the top four reaching double digits, as per a report by Newsweek.

What do these early polls really indicate?

Taken together, the February and March surveys suggest a shift in momentum rather than a settled race. Kamala Harris appears to have consolidated some support, while Newsom’s numbers have softened. The movement highlights how quickly voter sentiment can evolve at this stage.

Some candidates are also gaining visibility. Mark Kelly, for instance, has remained steady at 4 percent but has drawn increased attention in recent months due to a public clash with President Donald Trump and a related legal dispute.

Public messaging from the leading contenders reflects broader concerns within the party. Newsom said earlier this year, “given the choice, the American people always support strong and wrong versus weak and right.”

Harris, speaking to Democratic officials, noted, "Both parties have failed to hold the public’s trust.”

With the 2026 midterm elections ahead, attention is expected to stay on how Democratic leaders position themselves. These early numbers offer only a snapshot, but they reveal a party still shaping its future leadership — and a race that is far from settled, as per a report by Newsweek.

FAQs

Who is leading the latest Democratic primary poll?
Kamala Harris leads slightly, edging past Gavin Newsom.

Is the race decided yet?
No, it’s still very early and voter preferences can change.