Kamala Harris Tops 2028 Polls Amid Party Tensions
Kamala Harris on the phone with Justin Trudeau, 2021. Photo courtesy of Lawrence Jackson. Public domain.
Kamala Harris is stirring the political pot again, but this time, her message is sharper and more pointed. The former vice president, who lost the 2024 presidential race to Donald Trump, has been making waves with a new tone that distances her from the old guard and signals a possible 2028 White House bid. What exactly is she saying? How is the Democratic Party reacting? Here are the facts.
A New Message for a New Run
At a recent Democratic National Committee meeting in Los Angeles, Harris delivered a speech that caught many off guard. She criticized both major parties for losing the public's trust, saying government is seen as "fundamentally unable to meet the needs of its people," as reported by The Daily Beast. She added that people are "done with the status quo and they're ready to break things to force change."
This marks a clear shift from her 2024 campaign, which was often criticized for sticking too closely to then-President Joe Biden's platform. Now, Harris is positioning herself as a candidate who challenges the system itself, not just the opposition party. She described Trump as a "symptom" of a larger problem and warned against nostalgia for a "flawed system that failed so many," as reported by The Daily Beast.
Polling Shows She's Still a Contender
Despite her 2024 loss, Harris remains a prominent figure in early 2028 Democratic primary polls. A recent survey by Big Data Poll placed her at the top with 31.1% support, ahead of California Governor Gavin Newsom at 20.3% and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at 10%, as reported by Newsweek.
Other names in the poll included Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, all trailing behind Harris. However, it is worth noting that polls this far from the election can be volatile and should be taken with caution.
Expanding Her Public Profile
Harris has been busy expanding her public presence. She announced an extended book tour for her memoir, "107 Days," which chronicles her 2024 campaign and has stirred controversy within Democratic circles for airing internal disputes.
Her appearances at Democratic events have energized supporters. At the United Farm Workers annual gala, she received enthusiastic applause, and at the DNC winter meeting, she was a central figure, signaling her continued influence within the party.
No Official Announcement Yet
Despite the mounting signs, Harris has not officially declared a 2028 presidential run. In a recent interview with former DNC Chair Jaime Harrison, she said she has "not made any decisions" about running again, as reported by Fox News.
Harrison reassured her that millions would support her regardless of her choice, highlighting the strong base she still commands. Harris's strategic speeches and public engagements, however, suggest she is keeping her options open and building momentum.
The Democratic Field and Party Dynamics
Harris faces stiff competition within the Democratic Party. Gavin Newsom, who has surged in some polls, remains a formidable rival. Their relationship has been tense, with Harris's memoir revealing that Newsom did not return her call on a critical day during the 2024 campaign, though he later endorsed her.
Newsom's past controversies, including a reported affair and a high-profile dinner during the COVID-19 pandemic, have drawn criticism, but he continues to be a key player in the party's future.
What Harris Is Saying About the Party
Harris has voiced concerns about the Democratic Party's direction. She told Harrison that the party is "stuck in the past" and "speaking inauthentically," signaling a desire to reshape its message and approach, as reported by Fox News.
Her call for a "clear vision for what comes after the midterms and then after Trump" underscores her focus on long-term strategy rather than short-term victories, as reported by Newsweek.
The Personal Side
Harris's husband, Doug Emhoff, has also been in the spotlight. At a DNC reception, DNC Chair Ken Martin joked that Emhoff could be the future first gentleman, a lighthearted moment that hints at the couple's readiness for another national campaign, as reported by The Daily Beast.
What Comes Next?
Kamala Harris is scheduled to appear on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" soon, continuing to raise her profile and connect with a broader audience.
While no formal campaign has been launched, her recent speeches, book tour, and polling strength suggest she is positioning herself as a serious contender for the 2028 Democratic nomination. Whether she will officially throw her hat in the ring remains to be seen, but the groundwork is clearly being laid.
For now, Harris's evolving message and public presence keep her in the conversation, energizing parts of the Democratic base while also raising questions about party unity and electability. The next few years will reveal if this strategic repositioning pays off.
References: Kamala Harris Lays Groundwork for 2028 Run With Damning New Message | Kamala Harris' 2028 presidential chances get boost | Kamala Harris remains undecided on 2028 presidential run amid speculation
