On the agenda: recalling old Virginia. There’s a lively atmosphere. GOP Senators express concerns about Musk. Language in Liberia; reaching the finish line.
A “Waters Test” is coming, and High Diving is off the table. For instance, there’s a plan to announce a trip to the Iowa State Fair. Imagine a crowd chanting your name: “We will shake you.”
Arizona Senator Reuben Gallego isn’t alone in eyeing the 2028 presidential nomination for his party, and he appears confident.
California’s Governor Gavin Newsom is campaigning in South Carolina this week, making an effort to connect with Black voters, including those represented by James Clyburn. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro kicked off a new national initiative backed by prominent Democratic donors in Philadelphia. Perhaps it’s not the moment for passive self-promoters, as Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear seems to take steps toward a possible run.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is gaining attention for her support of Zoran Mamdani in last month’s significant New York mayoral election, prompting other Democrats to join the discussion.
But where to begin? As Gallego and Newsom navigate different paths, it’s unclear how the Democratic nomination process will ultimately unfold. The party has reshaped the primary calendar for 2024 to protect the vulnerable incumbent, former President Biden, shifting focus from progressive voters in New Hampshire and Iowa to more moderate ones in South Carolina and Michigan. This situation raises many questions.
Gallego, Newsom, Shapiro, and Beshear are among those exploring potential early states to garner support. Former Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are also in the mix, but there seems to be a lingering uncertainty about what direction the party might take.
After a recent campaign event in California that drew a large crowd, Ocasio-Cortez appears formidable within her party. Her engagement with fellow progressive leaders, including Bernie Sanders, further enhances her standing, especially as she navigates her evolving image among the party’s elite.
By the time Election Day 2028 rolls around, Ocasio-Cortez will be only 38, fitting seamlessly into the party’s renewed enthusiasm for younger candidates after its previous struggles. Her boldness could attract those seeking radical change within the party, especially since she has shown herself to be adept at handling internal politics in Washington.
Ocasio-Cortez’s approach to securing a Democratic nomination somewhat mirrors how President Trump captured the Republican nomination in 2016. There’s a growing belief that 2028 might present an excellent opportunity for Democrats, particularly if Vice President Vance remains a frontrunner for the Republican nomination. It’s easy to envision a campaign focused on moving past the Trump era.
This insight suggests that Gallego, Newsom, and others are likely cementing their strategies as potential early candidates. If the Democrats find themselves in an open contest, a center-left nominee could be favored to combat more progressive contenders. Historically, the mainstream choices have fared well, apart from Obama’s unexpected win in 2008.
Looking ahead, we’ll see if Ocasio-Cortez encounters genuine competition for the leftist mantle. So far, she seems to be carving her own path.
Feedback? We’d love to hear your thoughts and reactions! If you have tips or want to provide insights, feel free to reach out.
Survey findings
Trump’s approval ratings
Average approval: 42%
Average disapproval: 53.2%
Net Score: -11.2
Changes from last week: No significant shifts
Changes from last month: +0.4 points
[These averages include various polls.]
Views on school choice for religious institutions
Do you support funding vouchers for private school tuition over public schools?
Support: 35%
Opposition: 38%
No stance: 25%
[Results from national surveys.]
In other news: Concerns over car shows at cemeteries
A car show at a cemetery in Union County, North Carolina, has raised eyebrows. Families of those buried there feel it’s disrespectful to host events in sacred spaces. One family member expressed shock at the promotion of the event, highlighting the mixed reactions on social media. It appears the car show has since been canceled.
