Kamala Harris Leads in 2028 Democratic Presidential Poll

Former Vice President Kamala Harris has gained a 15-point lead over California Governor Gavin Newsom in a recent poll regarding potential Democratic candidates for the 2028 presidential election. Despite her silence on running for the presidency again, Harris has garnered support from 30% of respondents considering the Democratic nomination, as per a survey by Financial Times/Focaldata released on October 11.

Newsom, who received 15% support, trails behind Harris. Tied for third place, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez each have 9%. Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff follows with 8% support. The survey, conducted from October 2 to October 5, included 2,553 U.S. adults.

This poll reflects the generic ballot, measuring party preference for Congressional control rather than individual candidate support in specific races. The findings come amidst growing speculation about Democratic leadership following the 2024 midterm elections and GOP President Donald Trump’s second term.

Previous polls consistently place Harris ahead of her rivals. A Harvard CAPS/Harris survey from late September showed Harris at 38% against Newsom’s 17%, while an Echelon Insights poll earlier that month placed Harris ahead 24% to 14%.

Kamala Harris’s Potential Run in 2028

Since losing the 2024 presidential election to Trump, Harris has remained undecided about another White House campaign. Her political maneuvering has been scrutinized as she continues engaging with Democratic donors and backing candidates for the midterms.

Reports indicate Harris faces pressures within the Democratic Party, with some members highlighting her experience and established support base, while others suggest looking beyond her given the party’s 2024 defeat.

Harris’s strong early poll numbers are tentative; voter preferences over two years before an election may not solidify by voting time.

Gavin Newsom’s Stance

The poll is notable due to Newsom’s comments on a potential presidential race between high-profile Californian Democrats. In a CNN interview with Jake Tapper, Newsom stated he wouldn’t run against Harris, saying, “I wouldn’t do that to her.” He acknowledged overlapping political support and questioned the logic of competing against Harris.

Newsom has contemplated a 2024 run but felt unprepared. His remarks leave the door open for a presidential bid if Harris opts out. Meanwhile, Newsom has cultivated a national presence by campaigning beyond California and critiquing the Trump administration.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s Future Plans

Ocasio-Cortez has not dismissed the possibility of seeking the presidency in 2028. During an August appearance on ABC’s This Week, she expressed focus on the upcoming midterms. “I haven’t ruled out the possibility,” she remarked.

Emphasizing broader political ambitions, Ocasio-Cortez spoke at a University of Chicago event in May about her aim to change the country. Her support for candidates like Michigan Senate hopeful Abdul El-Sayed has heightened her profile.

Ocasio-Cortez’s 9% poll support rivals Buttigieg but trails Harris and Newsom. Other Democratic prospects include Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, though none have formalized bids for 2028.

Newsweek has reached out for comments from Harris, Newsom, and Ocasio-Cortez’s teams via email and awaits responses.

Republican Polling Insights: JD Vance Leads

The Financial Times/Focaldata survey also shows Vice President JD Vance leading prospective Republican candidates. Vance receives 38% support, Secretary of State Marco Rubio follows with 24%, while Florida Governor Ron DeSantis trails with 9%. Donald Trump Jr. garners 7%.

These results mirror previous Republican primary polling, as evidenced by a Harvard CAPS/Harris survey in late September placing Vance at 39%.

Democratic Strength in Midterm Polling

Alongside presidential findings, Democrats hold an eight-point congressional advantage over Republicans in the generic ballot for the upcoming midterms. As the 2026 contests approach, results highlight the broader political landscape, with potential presidential contenders starting to form national profiles.

For Harris, the immediate question is whether her early polling strength will result in another presidential campaign. Newsom’s pledge not to challenge Harris relies on her decision regarding the nomination.

If you wish to contact Newsweek editors on this story, reach Tobias Meyjes and James Debens.