Washington, Jul 14 (AP) Democrats are showing early fervor for the 2028 presidential race as potential candidates begin to engage with voters in pivotal states long before the official nomination process starts. It's only 2025, yet numerous prospective candidates are already making moves in key states to capture early attention.
With no obvious Democratic front-runner emerging, the primary may see up to 30 prominent Democrats enter the fray. Here's a look at what's happening so far:
South Carolina's July Heat
In just 10 days this month, South Carolina will host three Democratic presidential hopefuls. Though the official schedule isn’t set, the state is anticipated to hold the opening Democratic primary for 2028. California Governor Gavin Newsom, referred to as a presidential contender during a recent visit, downplayed any campaign ambition, framing his visit as an effort to strengthen the party for the midterms.
Kentucky's term-limited Governor Andy Beshear, admitting he's contemplating a run, will spend time in South Carolina this week, concentrating his efforts on engaging with the Black community, setting a different tone than Newsom on cultural matters. Meanwhile, California Representative Ro Khanna, who aligns with the progressive Bernie Sanders faction, aims to connect with union members and Black voters.
Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is conducting private talks with South Carolina Democrats, including influential Congressman Jim Clyburn, about a potential bid.
Kentucky's Democrat Takes the Stage
Beshear, at 47, with two terms as Governor, is marking his first political visit to South Carolina. He plans to appeal to red-state moderates and Black voters in Georgetown County, a region with a strong African American presence that previously backed Trump.
Beshear aims to highlight the opportunity for Democrats to reclaim pivotal middle-ground voters, emphasizing the need for focus and discipline, according to speech snippets obtained by the AP.
Sense of Urgency Among Democrats
Texas Representative Jasmine Crockett, a rising Democratic figure, emphasized the need for potential presidential candidates to be prominently present early on, especially after the Democrats' 2024 election setbacks. She stressed the importance of clarity about who the next nominee will be.
Jody Gaulin, Oconee County's Democratic chair in South Carolina, expressed hope that the arrival of presidential hopefuls will energize local party ranks, viewing this engagement as highly anticipated.
In New Hampshire, 46-year-old Democrat Jane Lescynski shared her eagerness for the upcoming 2028 presidential election, expressing excitement for what’s ahead.
Clyburn: The Influential Figure
Jim Clyburn, South Carolina's sole Democratic congressman, mentioned having direct conversations with Emanuel, Beshear, and Khanna, while appearing at events with Newsom and Maryland Governor Wes Moore. Clyburn expressed no early preference for the 2028 nominee and may remain neutral amid an anticipated large candidate pool.
He voiced confidence that candidates like Newsom, Moore, Beshear, and Khanna will receive a positive response from voters, expressing overall optimism about the Democratic Party.
Don’t Overlook New Hampshire and Iowa
Leading Democrats in New Hampshire are discreetly encouraging 2028 hopefuls to campaign in the state, which, unlike South Carolina, offers two competitive House contests and a significant Senate race in the upcoming midterms.
Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar, a 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, recently campaigned in New Hampshire with Representative Chris Pappas, focusing on his Senate bid in the next election. Illinois Governor Pritzker played a prominent role in a major state fundraiser in May.
Even though Iowa has lost its initial primary status, its two competitive House races maintain its allure for ambitious Democrats. Pete Buttigieg, who served in the Biden Cabinet and ran for president in 2020, led a town hall there in May.
Others are treading carefully. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is prioritizing his 2026 reelection and avoiding early state travel, as is Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Both are considered strong potential presidential candidates if they decide to run. (AP)
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