Democrats are still reeling from Kamala Harris’s defeat last November and adjusting to the reality of Donald Trump’s second term. For now, the party lacks a clear leader, but that won’t last. The 2028 presidential race already appears wide open, with several high-profile Democrats making early moves to position themselves. Following its ranking of Republican hopefuls, The Hill now evaluates the top Democratic contenders.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has sharpened his attacks on Donald Trump, gaining momentum in the process. He frequently mocks Trump on social media, mimicking the former president’s over-the-top style, and even launched red “Trump-like” merchandise with slogans such as “Newsom was right about everything.”
But his strategy isn’t just satire. At a recent Politico forum, Newsom warned Trump might pursue an unconstitutional third term and called him “the most destructive individual” of his lifetime.
The approach seems to be working. A new Emerson College poll shows Newsom leading Kamala Harris and Pete Buttigieg — a sharp rise from June, when he trailed both.
Skeptics remain, doubting whether a California liberal can win over swing states. Still, for now, Newsom holds clear front-runner status.
Read More: GOP Revives “Thoughts and Prayers” Response Following Minneapolis Shooting
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY)
For Democrats seeking generational change and a sharp move left, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez — better known as AOC — stands out. At 35, she is the most prominent Democrat of her generation, commanding a massive social media following and a reputation for fearless, charismatic politics.
Her platform rejects centrist traditions, calling for Medicare for All, the Green New Deal, abolishing ICE, and a federal job guarantee. Admirers see her as bold and inspiring, while critics argue her agenda is too radical for swing states.
AOC excites progressives much as Barack Obama once did, but also energizes conservative opposition. Still, her packed rallies with Sen. Bernie Sanders this year show her ability to mobilize the Democratic base.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris is set to launch a book tour for her memoir 107 Days, chronicling her campaign after President Biden’s abrupt 2024 exit. The tour will serve as a key test of her standing with Democratic voters.
Despite her high profile as vice president, senator, and 2020 contender, Harris remains an enigma. Her first presidential run fizzled, while her 2024 sprint mixed sharp highs — including a widely praised debate performance against Trump — with awkward missteps, such as deflecting on whether she’d differ from Biden’s approach.
If she pursues another White House bid, Democrats must decide: is Harris a resilient candidate ready for redemption, or a leader who consistently falls short of expectations?
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore landed in the spotlight after Trump falsely claimed Moore had praised him as “the greatest president” during the Army-Navy football game. Moore dismissed the story as an “imaginary conversation,” with video backing him up.
Like Gavin Newsom, Moore has taken to sparring with Trump online, though in a lighter style. At 46, he offers generational change without embracing the far-left policies of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Still, Moore remains little-known on the national stage — a fresh face with potential, but one yet to be fully tested.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has clashed repeatedly with Trump, most recently condemning talk of sending the National Guard or more ICE agents to Chicago. He called the idea “illegal, unconstitutional, and un-American,” accusing Trump of abusing power to “manufacture a crisis.”
A billionaire heir to the Hyatt hotel fortune, Pritzker is the wealthiest U.S. officeholder, worth an estimated $3.9 billion. His fortune ensures campaign resources but also raises questions about his ability to connect with working-class voters.
Pritzker’s wealth and combative style make him a formidable presence — though his populist appeal remains untested nationally.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has long been seen as a rising Democratic star, though she has taken a less combative approach to Trump than some colleagues. That strategy backfired in April, when she went viral for hiding her face with a folder during a White House photo op.
Whitmer insists her focus is on Michigan voters, and her two statewide victories in a critical battleground highlight her political strength. Her approachable, authentic style further boosts her appeal.
Still, Democrats may hesitate to nominate another woman after two unsuccessful bids in recent cycles — a challenge Whitmer would have to confront directly.
Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg
Pete Buttigieg remains one of the Democratic Party’s strongest media performers, with particular appeal to affluent, highly educated voters who now make up a growing share of the base.
A breakout figure in the 2020 primaries, Buttigieg exceeded expectations but struggled with key demographics. His limited executive experience — only as South Bend mayor — and weak support among Black voters remain significant hurdles.
Talented and articulate, Buttigieg has potential, but doubts about his electability continue to shadow his prospects.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro is often mentioned as a 2024 “what if” — many wondered if Harris’s campaign might have fared better with him as her running mate. Popular in a key battleground, Shapiro is polished, ambitious, and on the rise.
But his strong pro-Israel stance could be a liability in a Democratic Party increasingly sympathetic to Palestinians. A recent Economist/YouGov poll found only 15% of Democrats siding with Israel, compared with 44% backing Palestinians.
Shapiro’s past misstep comparing pro-Palestinian protesters to the Ku Klux Klan underscores the difficulty he may face navigating the party’s deep divide on the issue.
Sen. Chris Murphy (Conn.)
Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy could appeal to Democrats as a “best of both worlds” candidate. He is a sharp Trump critic, effective on social media, yet remains a broadly conventional lawmaker firmly within the political mainstream.
Murphy’s biggest hurdle is visibility. Against higher-profile rivals, the challenge will be proving he can command attention on the national stage.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has carved out rare success for a Democrat in a deep-red state, winning reelection in 2023 by five points despite Trump’s overwhelming margins there in 2020 and 2024.
He has built that record by emphasizing bipartisan issues like infrastructure while holding firm on core Democratic values, including vetoing a near-total abortion ban earlier this year.
Beshear could emerge as a 2028 dark horse, though many primary voters may prefer a more progressive and combative nominee.
Frequently Asked Questions
$Who are the top Democratic contenders for 2028?
Leading names include Gov. Gavin Newsom, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, former Vice President Kamala Harris, Gov. Wes Moore, Gov. JB Pritzker, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Gov. Josh Shapiro, Sen. Chris Murphy, and Gov. Andy Beshear.
Is Kamala Harris running for president again in 2028?
Harris has not officially announced her candidacy. Her upcoming memoir tour will test her support among Democratic voters and could signal whether she’s preparing for another run.
Which Democratic contenders are considered front-runners?
At this stage, Gavin Newsom holds an early edge in national polls, but others like AOC, Harris, and Whitmer remain influential and could shift momentum.
What qualities are Democratic voters looking for in 2028?
Voters are divided. Some want bold progressive leadership, others prefer pragmatic candidates who can win battleground states. Generational change is also a major theme.
Could a lesser-known Democrat break through?
Yes. Rising figures like Wes Moore and Josh Shapiro have strong résumés and statewide appeal but will need to build national recognition.
How do Democrats compare to Republicans for 2028?
Democrats face an open field, while Republicans continue to rally around Trump’s influence. Both parties are shaping their strategies early.
When will the Democratic primary officially begin?
The primary calendar will be finalized closer to 2028, but early maneuvering is already underway as contenders position themselves.
Conclusion
The race for the 2028 Democratic nomination is wide open, with no single figure commanding the party’s future. From high-profile contenders like Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris to rising stars such as Wes Moore and Josh Shapiro, Democrats face a choice between progressive energy, generational change, and pragmatic electability.