The race for the 2028 Presidential election is already heating up, with prominent Democratic figures like former Vice President Kamala Harris and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) among the key contenders. This election is particularly significant as it represents a pivotal moment for women aiming for the presidency.
Harris has decided against running for governor in her native California, signaling her intention to pursue another presidential campaign. This move, along with many Democrats visiting crucial early voting states like South Carolina and New Hampshire, suggests that the race for the White House is well underway. Notably, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has reportedly raised $1.6 million for his leadership PAC.
Why is the Democratic field racing to establish themselves so early? Perhaps it’s tied to the fallout from Donald Trump’s presidency and the relatively open landscape for Democrats. While the party may slow Trump’s excesses next year, it’s clear that only a new Democratic president in 2029 can address the deeper issues left behind.
Trump is in a precarious position, with low approval ratings and rising inflation. The next GOP candidate will inherit this difficult economic scenario, which has only worsened under his administration. Reports indicate that GDP growth has been sluggish, and job creation has taken a downturn recently.
In response to criticism, Trump has often dismissed negative news. Whoever emerges as the GOP candidate in 2028 will grapple with the consequences of his unpopular policies. Many Democrats seem to sense an opportunity.
Though Harris is expected to join the race, there isn’t a clear frontrunner for the Democratic nomination. A poll from Emerson College shows her among a trio of candidates, each with around 10-15% support. Alongside Buttigieg and California Governor Gavin Newsom, she appears to be just one of several players in the mix.
Back in November, shortly after Election Day, another Emerson poll had reported Harris leading with 37%, but that gap may not truly reflect her vulnerability as perspectives shift.
Harris has limited time to develop a substantive presidential campaign, having been unable to distance herself from the unpopular incumbent during her previous run. One wonders—will she take a more aggressive stance in 2028? Her approach needs to go beyond merely restoring past norms. The former vice president must be especially bold on economic issues, perhaps challenging major corporations like tech giants and large grocery chains.
Does Harris have what it takes to carve out a new path for the Democratic Party? Just last week, she mentioned in an appearance that she feels a need to step away from the “broken” political system—for now, at least.
On another note, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), a key voice for progressives, has announced he will not participate in the 2028 race. After losing in both 2016 and 2020, he garnered significant support and left a distinct mark on the Democratic agenda. If Ocasio-Cortez throws her hat into the ring, she could very well attract those voters who might have rallied around Sanders.
Self-identified as a democratic socialist, Ocasio-Cortez emerged victorious in the New York City party primary. However, her ideology may face challenges in suburban battlegrounds, despite strong support in urban centers that typically boost Democratic candidates.
Her endorsement of Zohran Mamdani in a recent primary showcases her commitment, yet Mamdani’s loss to former Governor Andrew Cuomo could impact her own standing as a candidate. If she enters the race, Ocasio-Cortez may have to navigate similar pitfalls.
Throughout her career, she’s supported bold proposals like universal healthcare, but those ideas may be tested against the backdrop of Trump’s more radical behavior. Surveys indicate that a majority of Americans now favor universal healthcare over Trump’s fiscal policies.
At just 35, Ocasio-Cortez represents a new generation in politics, demanding recognition from older politicians. Like Trump, she’s a fighter but channels her energy toward progressive values rather than divisive ideologies. Her drive engages voters on Main Street, distinguishing her from more traditional Washington politics.
She and Sanders have energized crowds in Republican areas through town halls, suggesting a need for the Democratic Party to leverage her enthusiasm. Her critical relationship with the Democratic establishment could resonate with voters frustrated with the status quo.
Many Americans express dissatisfaction with the current system and are eager for significant change. They may have seen that through Trump—and now, they’re looking towards Harris, Ocasio-Cortez, and other Democrats for their own versions of transformative reforms.
