Two dozen Democrats already plotting 2028 White House runs

Over two dozen Democrats exploring 2028 runs

Jim Messina, who led Barack Obama's 2012 campaign, says more than two dozen Democrats are actively considering presidential runs following their party's midterm election victories.

Campaigns already hiring and raising money

The candidates have begun the financing process and hired staff. Messina expects exploratory committees to launch next week or the next couple of weeks, probably after Thanksgiving.

Midterms success driven by economy focus

Democrats won by staying focused on the economy and Donald Trump's tariffs, which Messina said were devastating to rural voters. They flipped seats in Iowa, Kansas, and Texas.

“When you're a farmer and you're paying $7 for a gallon of diesel to put in your tractor, the economics just don't work.”

The Trump factor in 2028 race

Messina warned that the central challenge for Democrats will be whether to focus on their own message or spend the campaign talking about Donald Trump, who will still be president.

“It's going be the most interesting presidential election since 2008.”

Field will shrink as costs mount

Messina predicted the number of candidates will decrease as they face pressure to raise the large sums needed for primary contests that will decide the party's nominee.