The Democratic party, still reeling from Kamala Harris’s 2024 defeat to Donald Trump, is already focused on the 2028 presidential election. While some advocate for Harris to run again, others believe a fresh face is needed to lead the party. The field of potential candidates is wide open, with several state governors prominently positioned due to their executive experience and demonstrated ability to counter Trump’s policies. Among the leading contenders are:
Andy Beshear (Age: 47, Governor of Kentucky): The son of a popular former Kentucky governor, Beshear has won three statewide elections in a deeply conservative state. He advocates for a return to core Democratic issues like jobs, healthcare, education, and infrastructure, arguing this is the path to winning back voters. He’s also the chair-elect of the Democratic Governors Association for 2026, giving him a significant platform.
Pete Buttigieg (Age: 42, Transportation Secretary): A multilingual veteran with impressive credentials from Harvard, Oxford, and McKinsey, Buttigieg won the 2020 Iowa Democratic caucuses. Known for his communication skills and ability to connect with voters across the political spectrum, including on Fox News, his openly gay identity presents both an opportunity and a potential challenge.
Kamala Harris (Age: 60, Vice President): Despite her loss, Harris remains a contender. Supporters point to her near miss against Trump and the experience gained from a national campaign. However, critics highlight the significant resources spent on her unsuccessful bid and the historical reluctance to nominate a defeated candidate a second time.
Wes Moore (Age: 46, Governor of Maryland): Maryland’s first Black governor, Moore is a rising star with a strong background in the military, academia, and philanthropy. His charisma is widely acknowledged, although a recent controversy surrounding an inaccurate military honor claim could impact his candidacy.
Chris Murphy (Age: 51, Senator for Connecticut): A Senator since 2013, Murphy is known for his work on healthcare, foreign policy, and gun safety. He’s a passionate speaker and active on social media, but has also called for the party to rebuild and reconnect with voters feeling left behind.
Gavin Newsom (Age: 57, Governor of California): Newsom is known for his progressive policies and his outspoken criticism of Trump and Ron DeSantis. His strong fundraising network and national profile make him a serious contender, though he’s been targeted by Republican attacks.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (Age: 35, US Representative for New York): A progressive icon and inheritor of the Bernie Sanders political legacy, Ocasio-Cortez boasts strong social media engagement and the ability to connect with working-class voters. However, her progressive stance could alienate moderate voters.
Jared Polis (Age: 49, Governor of Colorado): America’s first openly gay governor, Polis has garnered attention for his entrepreneurial background and libertarian leanings. His COVID-19 policy stances, differing from other Democrats, demonstrate his independence.
J.B. Pritzker (Age: 59, Governor of Illinois): A wealthy governor with substantial fundraising capacity, Pritzker is focusing on protecting his state from Republican attacks. His progressive policies and strong fundraising abilities are assets, but his wealth could be a liability.
Josh Shapiro (Age: 51, Governor of Pennsylvania): A three-time statewide election winner, Shapiro has been urged by party leaders to run. However, his support for a private school voucher program and Israel’s actions in Gaza could draw criticism from the left.
Raphael Warnock (Age: 55, Senator for Georgia): Warnock, the first Black senator from Georgia, has a compelling personal story and champions progressive policies. His powerful oratory skills could resonate with voters.
Gretchen Whitmer (Age: 53, Governor of Michigan): Whitmer has a strong record in a swing state and gained national attention for her clashes with Trump. Her resilience and ability to connect with voters, even those who disagree with her, are seen as major strengths.