Potential Democratic Candidates Emerge for 2028 Presidential Race in Michigan
A recent poll offers insights into who might become leading Democratic contenders for the 2028 presidential nomination in the pivotal swing state of Michigan. The WDIV/Detroit News survey identifies former Vice President Kamala Harris as the frontrunner with 25.1% support. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg follows at 19.4%, while Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and California Governor Gavin Newsom received 11.5% and 10.1%, respectively. Senators Cory Booker and Mark Kelly both garnered 8.3% support.
The poll highlights Harris’ continued appeal among Democratic voters. However, it also indicates a potentially competitive primary with several well-known figures gaining traction. No candidate has declared a formal candidacy yet.
Additional Poll Findings
Other results show Governors Wes Moore, Josh Shapiro, and JB Pritzker each securing less than 5% support. Additionally, 1.6% would choose another candidate, while 7.5% remain undecided or refused to answer. Conducted by The Glengariff Group, Inc., the survey involved 500 likely Democratic voters via live-operator telephone from July 8 to July 11, with a margin of error of 4.4%.
According to Florida Atlantic University Professor Craig Agranoff, the poll is somewhat expected and offers insight into the current preferences of Michigan Democrats. He notes Harris’ recognition and institutional support give her an advantage. Buttigieg’s strong performance, due to his Midwest connection and appeal to younger voters, suggests he could be a strong contender in Michigan, a state crucial for Democrats rebuilding after 2024.
Michigan’s significance in past elections, including Trump’s narrow victory by 1.4 percentage points over Harris in 2024, underscores the importance of such polls. The Democratic Party will likely closely examine which candidates appeal to voters in shaping future strategies.
National Poll Comparisons
Similar trends appear in national polls. An Echelon Insights poll shows Harris at 21%, with Newsom at 14%, Buttigieg at 13%, and Ocasio-Cortez at 9%. Shapiro stands at 7%, Kelly at 4%, and 14% remain undecided. This survey included 1,004 participants and has a margin of error of 3.6%.
A Harvard CAPS/Harris Poll reflects Harris leading with 37%, Newsom at 24%, and Buttigieg at 10%. Shapiro and Ocasio-Cortez both hold 9%, while Pritzker has 5%. Conducted among 1,776 registered voters, the poll has a 2.3% margin of error.
Candidates’ Responses
Kamal Harris told Rev. Al Sharpton earlier this year she is “thinking about” a 2028 run. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez expressed that her focus is on effecting policy change, such as single-payer healthcare and workers’ rights, rather than pursuing higher office.
Contact Newsweek editors regarding this story: Edward T. Cummins.