Every major figure in the Democratic Party has a strong interest in supporting the reelection of Joe Biden. Every major figure in the Democratic Party also has a strong interest in promoting themselves.

This means every major figure in the Democratic Party has an incentive to try to do both at once, and maximize their national reputation and fundraising — either for a future national campaign or, in case, for some reason, Biden cannot run for another term as expected.

That’s why California governor recently Gavin Newsom announced an effort to amend the Constitution and limit the Second Amendment, and to do so he wanted people to support his political action committee, Campaign for Democracy, which says its mission is to “confront and defeat unAmerican authoritarianism.” This is sufficiently vague objective that will enable the PAC to emphasize whatever issue is most compelling to the Democratic party’s base at any time. Last week it was guns, this week it might be abortion, next week it will be voter suppression, and the week after that it can be climate change.

The main way Newsom wants you to help is to sign the petition, which includes giving Campaign for Democracy your e-mail address. In other words, Gavin Newsom is building a massive e-mail list of pro-gun-control voters for whatever future endeavors he may have.

This morning brings news that Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has launched a federal political action committee; in the announcement Whitmer says “this is a moment where our fight must stretch beyond Michigan and reach the entire country.” “Fight Like Hell PAC” would also like your e-mail, so they can regularly send you e-mails asking for money.

Now, Whitmer could simply record a video encouraging you to donate to Biden’s reelection bid. But instead, she wants you to give money to her PAC, so she can decide which Democrats to help.

And hey, if for some reason Biden can’t run, she would coincidentally and conveniently have a major campaign warchest and a bigger national reputation. Just in case, of course.