Several prominent Democrats, including former Vice President Kamala Harris, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and California Governor Gavin Newsom, are anticipated to enter the presidential race in 2028.
However, one emerging young leader has stated that he does not intend to participate in the election.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore has declared that he will not seek the presidency in 2028, even though he is often mentioned among Democrats as a potential candidate.
This has not stopped ongoing speculation regarding his future political ambitions, particularly as he continues to engage in activities outside of Maryland, enhancing his national profile. On Friday, he is scheduled to travel to South Carolina, an early primary state, to address the Blue Palmetto Dinner.
When asked about the year 2028, the governor responded candidly.
“I am not running,” Moore stated in an interview with The Associated Press. He further mentioned, when prompted, that he is not attempting to insert his name into discussions regarding a possible vice presidential candidacy, either.
Moore minimized the significance of his prominent visits to key battleground states, including a recent journey to South Carolina.
“People should become accustomed to my travels across the country to bring business back to Maryland, as that is precisely my intention for the duration of my governorship,” Moore stated following a dedication in Annapolis for a memorial honoring former Rep. Parren Mitchell.
Currently in the third year of his first term, Moore anticipates running for reelection in the largely Democratic state of Maryland next year. He emphasized that serving as the state’s governor during challenging times demands his full focus.
Another name is being mentioned as making early moves ahead of 2028: Pete Buttigieg.
Buttigieg is actively entering the digital media landscape, challenging conventional Democratic norms as discussions of a presidential campaign intensify.
The former secretary visited Washington this week to participate in an event with Democratic content creators and to engage in several media appearances, as speculation grows regarding a 2028 presidential bid following Buttigieg’s announcement that he will not seek the open Michigan Senate or gubernatorial position.
Buttigieg shared his insights with the Washington Examiner regarding new media, strategies to connect with individuals who do not align with established political parties, the current political environment, and his efforts to ensure his party’s success after departing from the Biden administration.
“I am utilizing my voice to the best of my ability in both traditional and new media, and I will persist in engaging in discussions with neighbors and voters about how we can achieve a better approach,” Buttigieg stated to the Washington Examiner. “I am uncertain what that entails for me, both politically and professionally, and I am far from making any decisions regarding that; however, I am aware that this is what I must focus on at this moment.”
Ezra Klein from the New York Times referred to Buttigieg as the “Democratic Party’s recognized top communicator” last year, shortly before the Democrats faced a significant loss in November.
During the 2024 presidential campaign, President Donald Trump participated in numerous podcasts and forums that are popular among younger audiences, including Joe Rogan’s podcast.
“We are undoubtedly in the midst of shadow primary season. Pete’s approach thus far is commendable,” stated Sammy Kanter, influencer and CEO of Girl and the Gov, in an interview with the Washington Examiner.
“He is participating in podcasts, which allows him to connect with Americans across the political spectrum. He engages with content creators and treats the online environment with the seriousness it deserves. His success in this arena stems from his ability to convey intricate events in a manner that is easy to understand,” Kanter added.
In April, Buttigieg paved the way for a presidential campaign in 2028 by declaring that he would not seek Michigan’s vacant U.S. Senate seat.
