Here’s who will run in 2028 for the Democrat party.
Although the 2028 Democratic presidential race is still over three years away, polling on potential candidates is already underway, giving us an early glimpse of what to expect. After the Democrats’ disappointing 2024 election results, losing both the White House and the Senate, many wonder who will step up to lead the party in 2028. With President Joe Biden stepping aside and Vice President Kamala Harris failing to secure a win for the Democrats in the 2024 election, the party now faces a leadership vacuum.
Even though the 2028 election is still distant, early polling is providing some insights into which Democrats might make a play for the presidency. One of the most significant findings from recent surveys is that Kamala Harris remains the leading contender, though there are several others who could emerge as threats in the coming years.
Kamala Harris, currently the Vice President, remains the dominant figure in early polls. Though she has not yet confirmed her intentions for 2028, speculation is rife that she might seek California’s governorship in 2026, as Governor Gavin Newsom is term-limited. If she runs, many believe she would be the frontrunner in that race. In the latest survey by Echelon Insights, Harris led with 36% support. Other polls have shown similar results, with Harris consistently outperforming other Democrats by a comfortable margin.
Behind Harris, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg remains a prominent figure. While he is a distant second in these early surveys, Buttigieg maintains his relevance after his strong 2020 primary campaign. His numbers hover around 8-10%, but it is unclear whether he will challenge Harris in 2028 or pursue another role within the party.
California Governor Gavin Newsom is also frequently mentioned as a potential contender, often polling just behind Buttigieg. Newsom’s popularity in the state and his prominent political career could make him a strong competitor, though for now, his numbers remain modest in the polls.
Another potential challenger is Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the progressive representative from New York, who garners attention from the left wing of the Democratic Party. Although her polling numbers are smaller compared to Harris or Buttigieg, she could become a formidable force as the primary approaches.
Other figures like Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania and Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota are also mentioned as potential candidates. Shapiro, in particular, had been considered a possibility for Harris’ running mate in 2024, and Walz was selected for the ticket by Harris herself.
In addition, some more unconventional candidates have also garnered attention in early polls. Billionaire Mark Cuban and ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith have appeared in recent surveys, though their chances of mounting a serious bid remain unclear.
As of now, it is still uncertain who will officially enter the race for the Democratic nomination. While names like Harris and Buttigieg are familiar, there is always the possibility that an outsider could emerge to dominate the race. The decisions of potential candidates will likely come into clearer focus after the 2026 midterm elections, with the first official campaign announcements expected to follow in 2027. Until then, the 2028 Democratic field remains wide open.