First 2028 Democrat Announces They Are Not Running For President

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 he does not intend to participate, as reported by CNN.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore, a Democrat, has declared that he will not seek the presidency in 2028, despite being frequently mentioned as a potential candidate among his party.

This has not stopped ongoing speculation regarding his future political ambitions, particularly as he continues to engage in activities outside of Maryland that enhance 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 his plans for 2028, the governor was candid.

“I’m not running,” Moore stated in an interview with The Associated Press. He also clarified that he is not attempting to position himself for a possible vice presidential nomination.

Moore minimized the significance of his prominent visits to key states, including a recent trip to South Carolina.

“And people should become accustomed to me traveling across the country to bring business back to Maryland, because that’s precisely what I intend to do as long as I serve as the governor of this state,” Moore remarked following a dedication ceremony in Annapolis for a memorial honoring former Representative Parren Mitchell.

Currently in the third year of his first term, Moore is preparing to run for reelection in the largely Democratic state of Maryland next year. He emphasized that leading the state during challenging times demands his full focus.

Another individual whose name is being mentioned as making early moves ahead of 2028 is Pete Buttigieg.

Buttigieg is actively establishing his presence in the digital media landscape, challenging conventional Democratic norms as discussions of a presidential bid intensify.

The former secretary visited Washington this week to participate in an event with Democratic content creators and to enhance his media visibility.

Buttigieg discussed his perspectives on new media with the Washington Examiner, addressing how to connect with individuals who do not align with traditional political parties, the existing political environment, and his efforts to ensure his party’s success following his departure from the Biden administration.

“I’m 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 about what this means for me, either politically or professionally, and I am far from making any decisions regarding that, but I recognize that this is what I must focus on at this moment.”

Last year, Ezra Klein from the New York Times referred to Buttigieg as the “Democratic Party’s recognized best-of-class communicator,” shortly before the Democrats faced a significant defeat in November.

During the 2024 presidential campaign, President Donald Trump participated in various podcasts and forums that are popular among younger audiences, including Joe Rogan’s podcast.

“It’s undoubtedly shadow primary season. Pete’s strategy thus far is effective,” remarked influencer and CEO of Girl and the Gov, Sammy Kanter, in an interview with the Washington Examiner.

He is appearing on podcasts, thereby engaging with Americans across the political spectrum. He is collaborating with creators and taking the online space seriously, as it deserves. He is thriving in this arena because he can articulate complex issues in a relatable manner,” Kanter added.

In April, Buttigieg paved the way for a potential 2028 presidential campaign by declaring that he would not pursue Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat.