Mixed Poll Results Emerge for Kamala Harris's 2028 Democratic Nomination Amid Newsom's Ascendancy

Speculation is mounting regarding former Vice President Kamala Harris's potential bid for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination in 2028, following her recent decision not to pursue the California governorship. The question of whether the nomination is hers "by default," as posed by author Wesley Yang on social media, reflects an ongoing debate within the party about its future leadership. Harris's move to forgo the gubernatorial race has widely been interpreted as leaving open the path for another White House campaign.

Despite her high name recognition, recent polling indicates a varied landscape for Harris. A May 2025 Echelon Insights national poll showed her leading the Democratic primary field with 26% support, ahead of Pete Buttigieg (11%) and Gavin Newsom (10%). However, more recent surveys present a less clear picture. A July-August 2025 Politico/Citrin Center poll of California Democrats found Governor Gavin Newsom leading Harris in their home state, with 25% to her 19%. Similarly, an Emerson College poll conducted in North Carolina in late July 2025 placed Pete Buttigieg slightly ahead with 17%, followed by Harris at 12% and 10%.

Political analysts note that while Harris, as the former Vice President and 2024 nominee, possesses a significant fundraising network and broad recognition, she also carries the "baggage" of her 2024 general election loss to Donald Trump. Experts suggest that a potential 2028 campaign would require her to address perceptions from that defeat, with some questioning if the party's base has a "ravenous appetite" for a third presidential campaign from her. Her recent announcement of a book, "107 Days," chronicling her 2024 campaign, has drawn mixed reactions.

The Democratic field for 2028 is expected to be competitive, with several prominent figures actively positioning themselves. Beyond Newsom and Buttigieg, potential contenders include Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Harris is reportedly planning to form a new organization and increase her media appearances and travel to competitive districts to support Democratic candidates, signaling her intent to remain a significant political force.