2028 Presidential Race: Who’s Next? Early Voting States See Democrats Ramping Up for the Challenge!

SENECA, S.C. (AP) — Even though the first presidential primary votes are still two and a half years away, several Democrats are making early moves in South Carolina. Over just ten days in July, three potential candidates hit the campaign trail in the state. This comes as nearly half a dozen other hopefuls have also visited South Carolina, along with key early states like New Hampshire and Iowa.

Voters in these states often see presidential contenders long before others. However, as we look ahead to the 2028 elections, the race is heating up much earlier than expected, sparking more frequent visits and less pretense from candidates.

California Governor Gavin Newsom recently visited South Carolina. Voters enthusiastically called out “2028!” during his speech, even as he insisted he was there to help the party prepare for the 2026 midterms.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear is making his debut in South Carolina this week. He plans to connect with the state’s Black community and discuss cultural issues, providing a counter-narrative to Newsom’s approach.

Additionally, Congressman Ro Khanna from California is targeting union members and Black voters, alongside the son of civil rights leader Jesse Jackson.

Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is also in talks with local Democrats, expressing strong interest in a presidential run. According to Rep. Jim Clyburn, a key figure in South Carolina, asking pertinent questions and positioning oneself is crucial for candidates.

Why the Early Buzz?

The Democratic Party is eager to shift focus after a disappointing 2024. With Republicans not holding the incumbent advantage, the race for 2028 could offer Democrats a fresh start. The field appears wide open, as some speculate up to 30 high-profile Democrats may enter the primaries.

One rising star, Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett, mentioned the need for candidates to be visible sooner in the process. She emphasized the party’s desire to know who its next nominee will be.

Beshear believes this is a chance for the Dems to reclaim moderate voters. His campaign efforts are aimed at demonstrating his appeal beyond the party base and away from Newsom’s more progressive stance.

He plans to remind voters of his accomplishments in Kentucky, such as making Juneteenth a holiday and banning discrimination against state employees based on their appearance. “The current administration wants to make diversity a dirty word,” he says, advocating for equity and opportunity.

Who Else is in the Mix?

Other candidates like Pete Buttigieg and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are making periodic appearances, with Buttigieg hosting town halls in early states and Walz recently speaking in South Carolina. However, some Democratic heavyweights like Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro are maintaining a lower profile, possibly waiting until nearer to the election cycle.

Khanna sees his less prominent role as an asset, suggesting a new era of leadership for the party. “There’s no clear frontrunner this time, which is healthy,” he notes, as he continues to promote his candidacy in early voting states.

Newsom, who previously downplayed his presidential ambitions, is now openly aiming for a role in the 2028 race. During his recent tour, Clyburn encouraged excitement among Democrats, echoing calls for more visits and energy.

Local Sentiment

Though still early, many Democratic voters in South Carolina and New Hampshire are expressing eagerness for the 2028 campaign. Grassroots organizers like Jody Gaulin, a Democratic chair in South Carolina, are optimistic that the potential candidates will invigorate the party. “This is exactly what we’ve been waiting for,” she said, mirroring sentiments from local leaders in New Hampshire who are equally ready for the upcoming cycle.

As we watch these early moves unfold, the stage is being set for a race that could redefine the Democratic Party for the years to come.

For more insights on the evolving political landscape, check out this report from AP News.

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