In these midterms, the fight between Republicans and Democrats belongs to the governors.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis took from the playbook of Texas's Greg Abbott when he sent migrants from Texas to the wealthy island of Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts.

California Governor Gavin Newsom says what DeSantis is doing is disgraceful.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Texas Governor Greg Abbott are widely regarded as presidential candidates for 2024.

The same can be said of California Governor Gavin Newsom, but he's repeatedly said he's not interested in running for the highest office.

No and no. I've said it in French, Italian, I don't know German.

I mean, I cannot say it enough.

Still, it's hard to avoid him these days, even if he don't live in California.

Well, there is growing speculations tonight as Governor Newsom runs for

re-election here in California about some ads he's running in Florida. Governor Newsom is on the

national stage in New York this week. He's also taking aim again at Republicans, like Texas

Governor Greg Abbott, saying they are, quote, doubling down on stupid. All this section on the national stage has people asking,

is Newsom Loki testing the waters for a presidential run in 2024?

And if not, what's a Zen game?

I'm Gustavo Oriano.

You're listening to The Times, essential news from the LA Times.

It's Monday, October 10, 2022.

Today, as part of our ongoing coverage of the midterm elections, how Governor Newsom is positioning

himself on the national stage and the possible reasons why.

My LA Times colleague and fellow columnist Mark Baraback joins me to discuss Newsom's political

career. Mark,

welcome the Times.

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