Both Parties’ 2028 Hopefuls Make Early Moves

The 2028 presidential race is beginning to take shape as both parties react to Democratic gains in the midterms, with potential contenders already raising their profiles and exploring campaign plans. On the Republican side, Vice President JD Vance remains a leading prospect but faces greater vulnerability because of his close association with President Donald Trump; after the losses, Vance blamed the Iran war and called for an honest assessment of the party’s direction. Marco Rubio, Ron DeSantis and Ted Cruz are among other Republicans discussed as possible candidates, though Trump administration ties could also weigh on their prospects. Democrats have a wide-open field, with figures including Andy Beshear, Mark Kelly, Ro Khanna, Wes Moore and JB Pritzker among those mentioned as potential contenders. Early maneuvering in New Hampshire and Iowa also points to how shifting state politics and the midterm results could shape the coming primary contests.