Tensions Rise Within Democratic Ranks as Party Prepares for 2028: Is the Old Guard Being Sidelined?
Whispers of political maneuvering are swirling through Democratic circles, and insiders reveal that tensions have reached a fever pitch. Even seasoned strategists are openly questioning loyalties and future ambitions, leaving many observers wondering: is this just routine party politics, or a subtle warning shot fired at those still lingering in the spotlight?
Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville delivered a stark message Thursday aimed squarely at former Vice President Kamala Harris and her close allies: the Democratic Party has no plans to rally behind them in 2028. Since the contentious 2024 election, relations between many Democrats and both Harris and former President Joe Biden have grown increasingly strained, with quiet calls within the party for them to step aside and allow new leadership to emerge.
Harris recently confirmed that she will not pursue a run for California governor, a decision that immediately fueled speculation about a potential presidential bid in 2028. However, on his Politics War Room podcast, Carville was unequivocal in dismissing any notion that Harris will secure the party’s nomination. Addressing a concerned listener, he said, “Don’t be worried. She made the smart decision not to run for governor.” Then, bluntly, “She will not be the party’s nominee in 2028. Anyone tied to 2024, the party wants to move past that. It’s nobody’s fault—it’s just the reality.”
Carville didn’t stop there. He also targeted other prominent Democrats, noting, “This goes for Walz too. I wouldn’t run again if I were advising him—not from a personal perspective, but because the environment won’t favor anyone connected to the 2024 campaign.” Co-host Al Hunt added a pointed remark about Biden himself: “Joe Biden, please take the restful retirement you deserve.”
Despite these warnings, several top Democrats remain in the conversation for 2028. Besides Harris, figures like former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and California Governor Gavin Newsom are expected to seriously consider presidential bids. Yet some rising stars appear to be stepping back. Maryland Governor Wes Moore, often rumored as a potential national contender, has openly ruled out running for president or vice president in 2028.
Moore, currently in his third year as governor, told The Associated Press that his recent trips to battleground states, including South Carolina, are focused on promoting Maryland’s interests rather than personal political ambitions. “People should expect me traveling across the country to bring business back to Maryland—that’s my focus as governor,” Moore explained. He plans to seek reelection next year and stressed that governing Maryland through a challenging period requires his full attention.
Meanwhile, Buttigieg continues to maintain a high profile, engaging with voters across traditional and digital media platforms. Speaking to the Washington Examiner, he described his current efforts: “I’m using my voice as best I can, talking with neighbors and voters about how to improve the way things are done. I don’t know what that means for me politically, but right now, this is what I need to do for the party.”
Conclusion
As the 2028 presidential race slowly takes shape, clear signals are emerging within the Democratic Party. The establishment appears ready to move on from figures closely tied to the 2024 election, leaving some veterans sidelined while new voices cautiously step forward. For Kamala Harris, Wes Moore, Pete Buttigieg, and others, the next several years will be a delicate balancing act—juggling personal ambition, strategic positioning, and the shifting priorities of a party eager for renewal.