As the Democratic Party struggles to regroup ahead of the next presidential election, internal divisions are creating significant roadblocks. California Governor Gavin Newsom, widely seen as a leading contender for the Democratic nomination in 2028, is now under fire for featuring MAGA-aligned radio host Steve Bannon on his new podcast.
Newsom Faces Backlash for Hosting Steve Bannon
The decision to engage with one of former President Donald Trump’s closest allies has drawn criticism from within Newsom’s own party. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, another rumored presidential hopeful, was among the first to denounce the move.
“Newsom bringing on different voices is great. We shouldn’t be afraid to talk and debate just about anyone,” Beshear told Politico. “But Steve Bannon espouses hatred, anger, and even, at times, violence. I don’t think we should give him oxygen on any platform, ever, anywhere.”
While Newsom is making headlines, recent polling suggests that he trails both Vice President Kamala Harris and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in the race for the 2028 Democratic nomination.
Buttigieg’s Strategic Move Clears Path for 2028 Run
Buttigieg, a rising star within the Democratic Party, recently made a key decision that could position him as a frontrunner for the presidency. The former Transportation Secretary announced that he will not run for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat in 2026, despite earlier speculation that he was considering a bid.
“I care deeply about who Michigan will elect as Governor and send to the U.S. Senate next year, but I have decided against competing in either race,” Buttigieg wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
He emphasized that his focus remains on shaping the future of the Democratic Party.
“The choices made in these years will decide the American people’s access to freedom, security, democracy, and prosperity for the rest of our lifetimes,” he added.
A source close to Buttigieg told Politico that his decision was framed as a strategic move to avoid a difficult Senate race in 2026 and keep his options open for a presidential bid in 2028.
Democratic Strategists See 2028 as Buttigieg’s Moment
Longtime Democratic strategist David Axelrod weighed in on Buttigieg’s decision, telling Politico:
“The hardest decision in politics is to pass on a race you have a very good chance to win. Pete was an A-list recruit and would have been a formidable candidate for the Senate had he chosen to run.”
However, Axelrod noted that winning a Senate seat in 2026 could have “almost certainly” taken Buttigieg out of the running for 2028.
“This certainly keeps that option open,” he concluded.
Kamala Harris Weighing 2026 California Gubernatorial Run
While Buttigieg focuses on 2028, reports indicate that Vice President Kamala Harris is considering a more immediate political campaign—running for governor of California in 2026.
According to Politico, sources close to Harris say she is expected to decide on her next move by the end of the summer. A gubernatorial bid would shift the Democratic landscape significantly, potentially removing her from the 2028 presidential equation and opening up new possibilities for other contenders like Newsom and Buttigieg.
Democrats Scramble to Fill Michigan Senate Seat
Buttigieg’s decision not to run for Senate has left Democrats scrambling to find a strong candidate to replace retiring Senator Gary Peters. Michigan, a key swing state that played a decisive role in President Donald Trump’s 2024 victory, remains a high-stakes battleground.
In 2022, Buttigieg relocated to Michigan, the home state of his husband, Chasten. Many believed this move was part of a larger political strategy, making his decision to forgo a Senate run even more significant.
Democratic Party Faces a Crossroads
With Newsom under fire, Buttigieg keeping his options open, and Harris still undecided, the Democratic Party remains in a state of uncertainty. As the 2028 race begins to take shape, the party’s ability to unite behind a strong candidate will be critical in determining its chances of reclaiming the White House.