2028 Democratic power rankings, right now

According to Axios sources within the Democratic party, Kamala Harris holds a commanding early lead for 2028. She's dominant with Black voters, the party's essential primary base, and allies say she's better prepared than any potential rival. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ranks second, seen by many as the rightful successor to Bernie Sanders' political legacy. Gavin Newsom places third, viewed as the field's strongest debater who can argue he's more effectively resisted President Trump than other Democrats — though his California connections are considered a drawback. Rounding out the field is an undefined establishment-backed moderate slot, with potential candidates including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, though insiders question whether moderates have room to grow in this populist political moment.

Listen to this story

Hear this and more stories in a personalized audio briefing.

Open The Chonkerton