Emerging Presidential Hopefuls: 12 Democrats to Watch in 2028

As the 2024 presidential election fades into the rearview mirror, attention is already turning to the next cycle. With the Democratic Party poised to nominate a new standard-bearer in 2028, a dozen promising contenders are beginning to make noise. In this article, we'll delve into the backgrounds and prospects of these 12 Democrats who are early 2028 presidential contenders, as identified by Advocate.com.

The Democratic Party is known for its diversity and depth of talent, and the 2028 field is shaping up to be no exception. From seasoned politicians to rising stars, these 12 individuals are positioning themselves for a potential White House bid. Let's take a closer look at each of them:

The Senators

• Cory Booker (New Jersey): A former mayor and current senator, Booker has built a reputation as a charismatic leader and advocate for social justice.
• Kirsten Gillibrand (New York): With a strong track record on women's rights and economic issues, Gillibrand is a formidable contender with a national profile.
• Elizabeth Warren (Massachusetts): A progressive icon and longtime champion of consumer protection, Warren is a household name with a dedicated following.

The Governors

• Gavin Newsom (California): As the governor of America's most populous state, Newsom has become a leading voice on issues like climate change and healthcare.
• J.B. Pritzker (Illinois): A successful businessman and philanthropist, Pritzker has used his governorship to advance progressive causes and build a national network.

The House Members

• Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (New York): The youngest woman ever elected to Congress, Ocasio-Cortez has become a lightning rod for progressive energy and a potential future leader.
• Ro Khanna (California): A tech-savvy and forward-thinking representative, Khanna has built a reputation as a champion of economic innovation and social justice.

The Mayors and Former Officials

• Pete Buttigieg (former Mayor of South Bend, Indiana): A rising star in the 2020 cycle, Buttigieg has continued to build his profile as a thoughtful and inclusive leader.
• Eric Garcetti (former Mayor of Los Angeles): With a strong record on environmental issues and urban development, Garcetti is a dark horse contender with a wealth of experience.
• Julian Castro (former HUD Secretary): A former mayor and cabinet member, Castro has used his platform to advocate for housing reform and social justice.
• Mitch Landrieu (former Mayor of New Orleans): A seasoned politician with a strong track record on issues like infrastructure and racial justice, Landrieu is a potential sleeper candidate.

As the 2028 presidential election approaches, these 12 Democrats will be worth watching. With a diverse range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, they represent the best of the Democratic Party and its commitment to progressive values. Whether one of these contenders ultimately emerges as the nominee remains to be seen, but for now, they are certainly generating excitement and interest among party insiders and voters alike.

The road to the 2028 presidential election is long and unpredictable, but one thing is clear: the Democratic Party has a deep bench of talented and dedicated public servants. As we look to the future, these 12 early contenders will be worth keeping an eye on. With their unique blend of experience, passion, and vision, they are poised to shape the party's agenda and potentially lead the country in the years to come.