As speculation about the 2028 presidential election heats up, one rising Democratic star has already ruled himself out.
While names like Kamala Harris, Pete Buttigieg, and Gavin Newsom dominate early chatter, Maryland Governor Wes Moore has confirmed he won’t be entering the race—at least for now.
Moore, often cited as a potential future contender, made his position clear in interviews with CNN and The Associated Press. Despite his growing national profile, he is fully focused on leading Maryland and preparing for his reelection campaign next year.
“I’m not running,” Moore said, dismissing speculation about both a presidential or vice presidential bid. He emphasized that his appearances in battleground states, including an upcoming visit to South Carolina for the Blue Palmetto Dinner, are part of state business, not personal ambition.
Moore, in the third year of his first term, stressed that governing during challenging times requires his full attention. “People should get very used to me going all over the country bringing business back to Maryland,” he said during a dedication in Annapolis for a memorial to former Representative Parren Mitchell.
Meanwhile, other potential 2028 contenders are already shaping their national profiles. Pete Buttigieg, for instance, has been active across traditional and digital media, engaging voters and neighbors without pursuing other political offices.
“I’m using my voice best I can… talking about how we could have a better way,” Buttigieg told the Washington Examiner, emphasizing that no immediate political decisions are planned. Media observers have praised his strategic outreach: Ezra Klein of The New York Times called him the Democratic Party’s “best-of-class communicator,” and influencers like Sammy Kanter noted his skill in connecting with Americans through modern platforms.
Buttigieg also cleared the path for a potential 2028 run by declining to enter Michigan’s open Senate race, fueling speculation about his long-term ambitions.
Conclusion
While early chatter about the 2028 Democratic field continues, Wes Moore is staying focused on Maryland, leaving the national stage to others. At the same time, figures like Pete Buttigieg are actively building influence, demonstrating that the shadow primary phase is already shaping the strategies and narratives that will define the next presidential cycle.