Rahm Emanuel: A Fighter Considering 2028 Presidential Bid
WASHINGTON — Rahm Emanuel is unapologetically a fighter. In an interview this week, he remarked, “There’s no one who’s ever gotten in the ring with me and not walked out with a broken nose.”
The former chief of staff under Obama and Chicago’s mayor is contemplating a challenging presidential run in 2028. “If I were to run, it would focus on ensuring people have the resources they need to build better lives,” he explained.
Emanuel emphasizes his fighting nature but clarifies that it isn’t about dividing Americans. Rather, he envisions policies like a minimum wage and universal access to preschool for kids who have yet to experience it.
Reflecting on his achievements, he mentioned how he improved Chicago’s graduation rate from 56 percent to 83 percent, noting that many of those students progressed to college.
As he approaches 66 years of age, it’s interesting to think about his potential candidacy. By 2028, it will have been two decades since his former boss became the first Black president, and nearly a decade since Emanuel left office with a mere 25% approval rating. Since then, his public presence has mostly revolved around a quiet three years as Biden’s ambassador to Japan.
Emanuel believes that Democrats need to re-examine their past to find a way forward. He critiqued his party for being out of touch, saying, “The problem with my party is that for the past four years, the only room we’ve been comfortable in has been the bathroom,” referring to the focus on transgender issues.
He insists that effective leadership requires being comfortable not just in the bathroom but across various spaces—family rooms, classrooms, and more. Emanuel acknowledged that, during the last election, the party seemed stuck in a cultural impasse, dealing with issues that were secondary to many voters.
“Ambition is Higher Than One’s Height”
Interestingly, Emanuel’s name rarely appears in polls regarding the 2028 Democratic primary, which prominently feature figures like California Governor Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris. However, some Democratic officials believe he possesses inherent advantages if he decided to run—his ties to Obama and connections to influential donors and entertainers through his brother, Ari Emanuel, a well-known Hollywood agent.
A strategist familiar with Emanuel remarked on his listening skills, saying, “He tries to listen at least as much as he speaks, which is very difficult for him.” Emanuel is making his pitch from a luxurious penthouse in Central Park, showcasing his ambitions as he seeks to reshape his political future.
Colleagues from his time as mayor highlighted his ongoing support network. People tend to stick with him, valuing his ability to inspire loyalty and achieve tangible results.
His connections span deep within the party, having fought numerous battles and accomplished much at both local and national levels.
The Israel Conundrum
Yet, the question remains: Do Democrats want Emanuel to be their standard-bearer? Some strategists suggest that while many party members seek a pragmatic leader, the current zeitgeist leans towards figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who encapsulate a more chaotic representation of political activism.
Emanuel has been outspoken about his criticisms of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, raising eyebrows about his positioning. He’s scheduled to visit Israel soon, possibly to frame himself as more left-leaning, especially amidst a growing progressive backlash against military aid to Israel.
Three potential Democratic nominees, including Emanuel and fellow Jewish politicians, might face tough questions about their stances on Israel, particularly in light of recent conflicts.
According to Haley Soifer from the Jewish Democratic Council, many American Jews resonate with Emanuel’s position of being pro-Israel while opposing its current administration. “Choosing the best candidate is key, independent of their Jewish identity,” she asserted.
A former Biden official pointed out that Emanuel would need to strengthen his appeal among Black voters, especially regarding his handling of the Laquan McDonald case, which continues to haunt his legacy. The lukewarm reception he received during an earlier visit to South Carolina underscores the challenge he faces.
Close Connections
Emanuel’s influence isn’t limited to politics; his friendships are notable as well. His best friend, billionaire Michael J. Sachs, is a significant Democratic donor and involved in building Obama’s presidential center in Chicago.
While Emanuel maintains a daily communication with his brother Ari, they keep a professional distance in their political endeavors, and the dynamics could evolve as the election approaches.
In summary, a seasoned Democratic operative expressed skepticism about Emanuel’s chances for the nomination but acknowledged the importance of dialogue and competition within the party. “If he can secure some early victories, who knows?”
