The Early Stirrings of the 2028 Presidential Race
The political landscape in the United States is already buzzing with anticipation as Democrats begin to position themselves for the 2028 presidential race. While the election is still over four years away, the jockeying for position has started earlier than ever before. Pete Buttigieg, the former Secretary of Transportation, has ruled out a run for statewide office in Michigan in 2026, leaving the door open for a potential presidential bid in 2028. Similarly, Governor JB Pritzker of Illinois is set to visit New Hampshire, a key battleground state in presidential primaries, signaling his interest in exploring higher office. Meanwhile, Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota recently addressed a group of frustrated Democrats in Iowa, a state that traditionally kickstarts the presidential nominating process.
These moves reflect a broader trend within the Democratic Party. With President Trump’s administration advancing an aggressive agenda and Democrats growing increasingly frustrated with their leaders in Congress, many ambitious politicians are quietly looking ahead to 2028. The race for the White House may seem distant, but behind the scenes, strategists, activists, and potential candidates are already engaging in what can only be described as a shadow primary. Though no one has officially announced their candidacy, the actions of these individuals—through their policy positions, travel schedules, and public statements—are being scrutinized for any hint of presidential ambition.
A Crowded Field of Potential Contenders
The list of possible Democratic contenders for 2028 is vast and diverse, including at least eight governors, several senators, and a mix of current and former officials. Pete Buttigieg, who ran for president in 2020, remains a prominent figure, with supporters in New Hampshire celebrating his decision not to pursue statewide office in Michigan. Former Vice President Kamala Harris is also weighing her options, considering a potential gubernatorial run in California and how such a move might impact her chances of mounting a third presidential campaign.
Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota has begun to distance himself from his former running mate, arguing that Democrats played it too “safe” in 2024. His recent media blitz suggests an effort to establish himself as a fresh voice within the party. Meanwhile, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York is gaining attention as a potential heir to Senator Bernie Sanders’ progressive legacy, though she is not seen as likely to run. Sanders, now 83, appears to be ruling out another presidential bid, leaving an open lane for younger progressive voices.
The Democratic field is expected to be crowded, potentially eclipsing the record-breaking 2019 lineup of over two dozen candidates. Many of the party’s rising stars are white men, a notable shift from the historically diverse field of 2019. Governors like Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, and Andy Beshear of Kentucky are beginning to extend their reach beyond their home states, addressing national audiences and building relationships with key donors and activists.
Early Fault Lines and Strategic Maneuvering
As the shadow primary intensifies, early fault lines are emerging within the Democratic Party. Governor Gavin Newsom of California, long considered a presidential hopeful, has reinserted himself into the national spotlight through a controversial podcast series. His decision to host right-wing figures like Charlie Kirk and Stephen K. Bannon has drawn criticism, including from Governor Andy Beshear, who called it a mistake to give Bannon “any platform ever, anywhere.”
Other Democrats, such as Representative Ro Khanna of California, are working to build their national profiles through town halls and speaking engagements. Even figures like Rahm Emanuel, the former mayor of Chicago and Ambassador to Japan, are signaling a potential return to politics, though Emanuel himself remains vague about his intentions.
These early maneuvers highlight the strategic complexities of running for president. With the selection of early nominating states unlikely to be finalized until at least 2026, candidates are forced to navigate a shifting landscape without a clear roadmap. Despite the uncertainty, the competition for attention and support is already fierce, with each potential contender trying to carve out a unique niche within the party.
The Role of Governors in Shaping the Race
Governors are playing a particularly significant role in the early stages of the 2028 race. Their ability to govern effectively, pass progressive legislation, and build relationships with key constituencies positions them as formidable candidates on the national stage. Governors like Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan and Andy Beshear of Kentucky are leveraging their statewide success to elevate their profiles, speaking at national events and engaging with donors and activists.
Andy Beshear, in particular, has been a standout figure, bolstering his relationships with the party’s donor class and taking on leadership roles within the Democratic Governors Association. His efforts to support liberal candidates in states like Wisconsin demonstrate his commitment to building a broader political coalition. Similarly, Governor JB Pritzker of Illinois is using his platform to address key liberal think tanks and advocate for progressive policies, further solidifying his place in the conversation.
The focus on governors reflects a broader recognition within the Democratic Party that state-level leadership can serve as a powerful springboard for national office. These leaders are not only proving their ability to govern but also showcasing their vision for the country—a critical component of any successful presidential campaign.
The Challenge of uniting a Divided Party
Perhaps the greatest challenge facing Democrats in 2028 will be uniting a deeply divided party. The progressive and moderate wings of the party continue to grapple with differing visions for the future, and the absence of a clear standard-bearer only exacerbates these tensions. While figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders represent the progressive base, leaders like Tim Walz and Andy Beshear are positioning themselves as more pragmatic, centrist options.
The early fault lines on issues like compromise with Trump supporters and controversial cultural topics like transgender athletes in women’s sports highlight the difficulty of finding common ground. Governor Gavin Newsom’s decision to engage with right-wing figures, for example, has drawn sharp criticism from some quarters, while others see it as a necessary step toward building a broader coalition.
These divisions are unlikely to resolve themselves anytime soon, and the crowded field of potential candidates will only add to the complexity. As the race progresses, the ability of these leaders to navigate these tensions and inspire unity will be a critical factor in determining their success.
The Long Road Ahead
Despite the early jockeying, the 2028 presidential race is still in its infancy. Most of the political world remains focused on the upcoming midterm elections in 2024, and rank-and-file Democrats are preoccupied with what they see as President Trump’s threats to the country’s rule of law. However, the quiet conversations, strategic maneuvering, and early positioning of potential candidates underscore the enduring allure of the presidency.
For now, the shadow primary remains just that—a series of subtle moves and gestures designed to build momentum and attract attention. The real race will begin in earnest closer to 2028, but the groundwork being laid today will undoubtedly shape the contours of the contest. As Raymond Buckley, chairman of the New Hampshire Democratic Party, noted, thinking about 2028 allows some people to survive the trauma of the present moment. For these ambitious Democrats, the hope of a better future is already beginning to take shape.
