As Democrats begin to grapple with the aftermath of a hard-fought but ultimately unsuccessful presidential campaign, ambitious leaders within the party are already positioning themselves for a potential 2028 run.
Figures like Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and former presidential candidate and current Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg are quietly laying the groundwork for future campaigns, reflecting the Democratic Party’s need to regroup, re-strategize, and push forward in the wake of Donald Trump’s return to power.
Governor Josh Shapiro, who has emerged as a rising Democratic star in Pennsylvania, has been receiving calls from party leaders urging him to consider a 2028 bid. With a substantial fundraising network and a growing national profile, Shapiro is viewed by some within the party as a potential savior who could mobilize key swing states. Although he supported Harris in the last race, some Democratic operatives wonder if he could have swayed Pennsylvania had he been on the ticket himself. While Shapiro is up for reelection as governor in 2026, the buzz around his potential presidential candidacy reflects his rising influence.
Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom is preparing his state for what he calls a “Trump-proof” future, leveraging his California-based networks and extensive small-donor lists. He convened his legislature for a special session to address anticipated conflicts with the Trump administration on issues ranging from climate change to immigration. Known as a leading voice of resistance against Trump, Newsom is also trying to strike a careful balance, framing his efforts as a matter of policy rather than partisanship. Newsom, who has raised over $150 million since 2020 and maintained close ties with influential Democratic donors, is strategically building a robust political apparatus while portraying himself as a pragmatic leader who prioritizes California’s needs over political squabbles.
Pete Buttigieg, on the other hand, brings a distinct set of skills to the table that have kept his name in the conversation for a future White House run. As he prepares to conclude his role as Transportation Secretary, Buttigieg has demonstrated his ability to communicate effectively in challenging media environments, including on conservative platforms like Fox News. Known for his analytical approach and articulate style, he remains a popular figure among many Democrats who see his cross-party appeal as a key strength. At only 42, Buttigieg has ample time to consider his options, and he has not ruled out a gubernatorial bid in Michigan in 2026, giving him multiple paths toward a potential presidential run.
Vice President Kamala Harris, who became a central figure of the Democratic resistance to Trumpism in her concession speech at Howard University, remains a potential candidate for 2028 as well. Her campaign faced significant challenges this cycle, but she has maintained her commitment to the Democratic movement, underscoring her experience and ties to the progressive community. However, Harris’s potential rivals are already building out their own support networks, with some testing the strength of their fundraising operations and political influence.
Alongside these prominent figures, other Democratic leaders are also emerging, reflecting the party’s deepening bench. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, for example, has gained traction in Democratic circles, with some insiders suggesting he could be a leading figure in 2028. In New Hampshire—a traditional launching pad for presidential bids—several key Democrats, including Governors Andy Beshear of Kentucky and JB Pritzker of Illinois, have made campaign appearances, cultivating national attention while promoting the Democratic agenda.
As the Democratic National Convention unfolded in Chicago, leaders like Rep. Ro Khanna of California spoke to the party’s readiness for new leadership, highlighting a “deep bench” of candidates. This sentiment was echoed by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who has earned praise for her steady leadership and is another potential 2028 contender. Meanwhile, New Hampshire Democrats, a key group for any would-be presidential candidate, took note of the party’s parade of hopefuls visiting their state, each seemingly auditioning for a future role on the national stage.
The path forward for these Democratic leaders is not without obstacles. Trump’s victory has left the party searching for new strategies to reconnect with voters, especially in traditionally blue-collar areas where the Republican message has gained traction. But for Shapiro, Newsom, Buttigieg, Harris, and others, the groundwork laid today could be instrumental as Democrats seek to shape a new vision that resonates with a diverse electorate and counters the impact of a second Trump administration.
With Trump set to take office once again, the race for the Democratic nomination in 2028 is likely to start sooner than usual, with these rising stars jostling for position to emerge as the party’s next standard-bearer. Whether it’s defending Democratic values in their respective states or rallying support through extensive volunteer networks and legislative action, the party’s hopefuls are already showcasing the strategies, policies, and leadership styles they believe could lead to a Democratic resurgence. For these candidates, 2028 begins now, as they seek to rebuild and revitalize a Democratic Party that has just faced a challenging blow.
Source: Politico
