2028 Race: Former Obama Aides See Surge in Democratic Bids

Jim Messina, who managed Barack Obama’s 2012 presidential campaign, stated that more than two dozen Democrats are actively considering bids for the White House in 2028. The strategist said he has spoken directly with over two dozen campaigns that have begun the logistical work of hiring staff and raising money. Messina told the BBC’s Americast podcast that these groups are emboldened by the Democratic Party’s strong performance in the recent midterm elections.

The path to a crowded field began with the midterm results, which Messina attributed to the party’s consistent focus on the economy. He noted that Democrats flipped seats in traditionally Republican areas, including Iowa, Kansas, and Texas. Messina argued that this success came from sticking to a single message rather than engaging in culture wars. He described the economic impact of President Donald Trump’s tariffs as "devastating to rural voters," citing specific examples of farmers paying $7 for a gallon of diesel.

Messina warned that the initial enthusiasm will soon meet the financial reality of a primary contest. He predicted the field will narrow as candidates confront the pressure of raising large sums of money. In his conversations with potential candidates, Messina said he asks them to define their economic vision for the country and explain their plans regarding artificial intelligence. He added that he already knows of one individual relocating to join a governor’s presidential campaign.

A major challenge for the 2028 cycle is that Donald Trump will remain in office throughout the campaign season. Messina questioned whether Democrats will focus daily on the outgoing president or stay focused on their own message. He called the upcoming election the most interesting since 2008. However, he cautioned that the midterm results were not a full endorsement of the party. He identified Donald Trump as the "MVP of the election for the Democrats" and stated that the party's next task is uniting its progressive and centrist wings in Congress.

Messina expects the formal process to begin shortly. He said he anticipates Democrats will announce exploratory committees within the next week or two. These announcements are likely to occur after the Thanksgiving holiday. The former deputy chief of staff at the White House indicated that the momentum from the midterms is already driving candidates to take concrete steps toward a national run.