2028 Elections
2028 Presidential Candidate Bingo: Too Soon?
Incumbent President Biden and 2024 GOP nominee, former President Trump, will not be presidential candidates again, so many politicians in both major parties may already be preparing themselves for 2028.
According to FiveThirtyEight, based on review of prior election cycles, there are several signs that someone might be considering a presidential run (reference):
Visiting Iowa for a political event.
Visiting New Hampshire for a political event.
Visiting South Carolina for a political event.
Participating in an interview for a feature story in a major national magazine.
Making a campaign appearance outside of Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina for their party's candidates.
Releasing a book or agreeing to write one to be released during the campaign cycle.
Being included in at least one early national poll.
Others signs to consider, generally include:
Establish a National Profile: Governors and other similar state-branded politicians work to get their name and achievements recognized on a national level, often through media appearances, speeches, and interviews. And prior to establishing their national profile, they often focus on passing significant legislation or achieving other milestones in their home state to showcase their leadership and effectiveness.
Participate in National Events: Attending national party conventions, summits, and other high-profile events can help potential candidates get noticed by party insiders and the media...or when fortunate enough, have your state host a national convention in an election cycle leading up to presidential candidacy (e.g. 2024 Chicago DNC).
Take Stances on National Issues: While governors primarily deal with state issues, those considering a presidential run often start speaking out on national and international matters...and when money is of little consequence, establish national advocacy organizations regarding "red meat" topics for the party-base (e.g. Think Big America).
Network with Party Leaders: Building relationships with key figures in their political party, including donors, activists, and elected officials, is crucial for gaining endorsements and support, which may include providing fundraising support in key races in an election cycle leading up to presidential candidacy.
What 2028 Candidates Could be Considered for the August 2024 DNC?
Based on the outlined criteria above, here are some alternative candidates that Democrats might consider for the 2024 presidential nomination (note: Vice President Kamala Harris was formerly endorseed by President Biden immediately after announcing his withdrawal from the nomination):
1. Kamala Harris
Current Position: Vice President of the United States
National Profile: As Vice President, she has a significant national presence.
Legislation: Focuses on a wide range of issues from criminal justice reform to healthcare.
National Issues: Regularly addresses national and international issues.
Networking: Strong connections within the Democratic Party and among donors.
Signs of Presidential Run:
High visibility in the media.
Has been included in early national polls.
2. Gavin Newsom
Current Position: Governor of California
National Profile: As the governor of a high-profile state, Newsom has national recognition.
Legislation: Known for progressive policies on climate change, healthcare, and social issues.
National Issues: Actively speaks on national matters, such as gun control and immigration.
Networking: Has connections within the Democratic Party and has supported other candidates.
Signs of Presidential Run:
Has made media appearances and given speeches at national events.
Participated in interviews and feature stories in major national magazines.
Seen as a potential candidate in early national polls.
3. Gretchen Whitmer
Current Position: Governor of Michigan
National Profile: Raised her profile during the COVID-19 pandemic and 2020 elections.
Legislation: Known for healthcare, education, and labor rights initiatives.
National Issues: Actively speaks on national policies and issues.
Networking: Strong ties with party leaders and support from labor unions.
Signs of Presidential Run:
Media appearances and feature stories.
Visits to key states like Iowa and New Hampshire.
Early national polls inclusion.
4. Cory Booker
Current Position: U.S. Senator from New Jersey
National Profile: Well-known for his work in the Senate and his 2020 presidential campaign.
Legislation: Focuses on criminal justice reform, economic equality, and healthcare.
National Issues: Vocal on national policies and international matters.
Networking: Built a robust network during his Senate and presidential campaigns.
Signs of Presidential Run:
High-profile speeches and media interviews.
Early national polls inclusion.
5. J.B. Pritzker
Current Position: Governor of Illinois
National Profile: As the governor of a major state, Pritzker has garnered national attention for his policies and leadership, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Legislation: Known for progressive policies on healthcare, education, and economic development. He has also focused on fiscal reform and cannabis legalization.
National Issues: Actively speaks on national issues such as healthcare reform, economic inequality, and climate change.
Networking: Strong connections with Democratic Party leaders, donors, and activists. His personal wealth also provides significant fundraising capabilities.
Signs of Presidential Run:
Has made several high-profile media appearances and given speeches at national events.
Engaged in supporting other Democratic candidates in key races.
Included in early national polls as a potential candidate.
These candidates have shown signs of considering a presidential run through various activities, media engagements, and legislative achievements. They have also been involved in national issues and events, and are arguably in position to present themselves as viable alternatives to President Joe Biden for the 2024 Democratic nomination.