Cedar Rapids, Iowa — Pete Buttigieg made a return to Iowa on Tuesday.
His visit to City Hall seemed aimed at quelling speculation about a serious bid for the 2028 presidency. The former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, and 2020 White House candidate, who also served four years as Secretary of Transportation under President Joe Biden, continues to be a notable figure in Democratic circles.
“It feels really good to be back in Iowa. Anyone can come here just before the election,” Buttigieg remarked during the Town Hall meeting.
With enthusiasm, he referenced his victory in the 2020 Caucus, adding, “I wanted to ensure I had the chance to talk to people I got to know five or six years ago and also meet new faces.”
Less than a month after Trump’s second term began, Democrats are already eyeing the 2028 presidential election.
Buttigieg wasn’t pressed on a possible second run during the event, which was hosted by Potevets, a progressive organization focusing on veterans and military families. The group indicated that around 1,800 attendees were present.
In a live interview before the Town Hall, Buttigieg stated that by 2028, he would consider “what I’ll bring to the table.”
During his brief stay in Iowa, Buttigieg was engaged with his 2020 campaign team and recorded messages for his political group, Win The Era.
When questioned if his Iowa trip marked the beginning of a 2028 evaluation, he responded, “I’m not running anything right now. The exciting aspect of opportunities like this is about campaigning for values and ideas rather than a specific election.”
A few individuals from the crowd who had backed Buttigieg in 2020 expressed interest in supporting him again if he chooses to run in 2028.
“I come from a long line of veterans, and my family has members working at the VA Hospital in Iowa. So I’m here to show my support,” shared Face Hunt from Cedar Rapids. “I loved Pete in 2020, and I can’t wait to see him campaigning again.”
Another attendee, Chris Bzdill, remarked, “Hearing him speak was refreshing. It just seems sensible and straightforward.” He added, “I hope this continues, as I’m eager to see where it goes.”
Buttigieg noted how meaningful it is to hear continued support from those who rallied behind him before.
This trip comes shortly after Trump’s second mission at the White House.
With Democrats’ approval ratings plummeting, they are keen to confront Trump’s controversial policies during his second administration. They are also gearing up for the midterm elections next year, aiming to reclaim the House and possibly the Senate while looking ahead to the 2028 presidential race.
Iowa’s Caucus has been a crucial launching point for major political parties, though the Democratic National Committee has downgraded its status on the 2024 schedule.
Buttigieg’s visit is perceived as a sign of his interest in 2028. In March, he announced he would forgo a 2026 Senate run in his adopted hometown.
Distinct from many Democrats, Buttigieg has appeared on Fox News during his time in the Biden administration and has recently taken part in various podcasts and public appearances.
“We are diversifying how we reach out through podcasting and other forms, engaging with both political and non-political audiences,” Buttigieg emphasized during the Town Hall.
As a veteran himself, having served six years in the Navy reserves, and with a deployment to Afghanistan, Buttigieg understands the military community. He remarked on the gathering’s unique composition, noting, “These were Central Right Army families and veterans looking to reconnect with the Democratic Party.”
Buttigieg acknowledged that Democrats need a new way to connect with voters in areas like Iowa, which have trended red in the past decade. “It’s vital for Democrats to have a language that resonates, and you can’t craft that online,” he pointed out.
While he criticized the actions of the Trump administration, Buttigieg stressed the importance of elevating Democratic ideas to escape political stagnation.
His visit coincided with criticisms directed at him from Trump and others regarding flight delays at Newark Liberty International Airport.
Trump claimed that Buttigieg was ignorant of operational issues during his time as Secretary of Transportation, stating, “I don’t think he’s going to do well,” referencing Buttigieg as a presidential candidate.
In response, Buttigieg maintained that facing challenges head-on is essential for successful governance, rather than shifting blame elsewhere. He mentioned the efforts underway to modernize the air traffic control system, criticizing complacency and highlighting the necessity for robust technological advancement in support of efficient air travel.
