Newsom's Glitzy China Trip Stokes 2028 Dreams Despite Stumbles

Newsom visited China and met with President Xi, an impressive diplomatic feat for a governor. He posed for glamorous photos, revealing his fallible humanity despite aiming to appear presidential.

The photo of Newsom leaning on the Great Wall went viral, drawing comparisons to his infamous glamour shot with his ex-wife. It elicited eye rolls but also showed his ambition.

Newsom brought a White House photographer to capture cinematic images casting him as a global leader. Past presidents visiting the Great Wall were photographed there at historic moments.

The grand photos contrasted with gaffes showing Newsom's flashy side, like slipping during a staged basketball photo. He aims to memorialize his governorship, inspired by Schwarzenegger's book.

Though mocked for the glam shots, Newsom scored a meeting with Xi when Biden has not. The trip burnished his credentials despite missteps, keeping 2028 presidential ambitions alive.