Potential 2028 US Presidential Candidates and Polling Insights

An Emerson College poll assessed potential candidates for the 2028 presidential election. The poll highlighted key matchups between prospective Democrats and Republicans like JD Vance and Marco Rubio.

Shaping the Presidential Field

Candidates usually announce their runs post-midterms, although some start earlier. Many are testing messages and visiting key primary states to increase recognition. While voting is over a year away, polls indicate early candidates with momentum. Donors and media watch these signs, which affect fundraising and publicity.

The Democratic field is set to be competitive. Possible candidates include former Vice President Kamala Harris, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Senator Jon Ossoff, and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. On the GOP side, Vance and Rubio are leading prospects.

Democrats in Matchups Against Vance and Rubio

The poll surveyed 1,000 likely voters between August 16-17, 2026, with a ±3 percentage point error margin. Buttigieg captured 5-point leads over both Vance and Rubio, polling at 49% to the Republicans’ 44%. Ossoff led Vance by the same margin and Rubio by 3 points. Newsom had a 5-point lead over Vance and a smaller lead over Rubio.

Harris led Vance by 4 points but trailed Rubio by 5 points. Ocasio-Cortez saw Vance and Rubio leading her by 2 and 5 points, respectively. Newsweek requested comments from representatives of the potential candidates.

Democratic Primary Poll Insights

Polls show a fragmented Democratic primary field. Harris holds a slight lead per recent surveys. An Echelon Insights poll gave her 18%, followed by Buttigieg (13%), Newsom (12%), and Ocasio-Cortez (11%). Ossoff and others had less than 5% support.

An Emerson College poll saw Buttigieg in front with 19%, followed by Newsom (17%), and tied Ossoff and Ocasio-Cortez at 13%. The poll surveyed 1,110 likely voters in July 2026, with a ±2.9% margin of error.

Republican Primary Projections

For Republicans, Vance and Rubio lead recent polls. The Echelon poll positions Vance at 39% and Rubio at 22%. Meanwhile, Emerson College found Vance slightly ahead of Rubio, with DeSantis and Donald Trump, Jr. trailing.

Statements from Possible Candidates

Vance plans to discuss running post-midterms, stating to CBS News he has presidential backing in his decisions. Harris expressed interest during a convention speech, citing her experience near presidential duties.

“I know what the job is, and I know what it requires,” she said.

Newsom expressed conditional interest in running, considering it a matter of “fate.” Ocasio-Cortez focused on policy changes rather than personal ambition. Ossoff declined interest in the presidency.

Looking Ahead

No immediate deadlines exist for 2028 presidential bids. The 2026 midterms will influence decisions. Potential candidates will likely increase efforts in fundraising and early primary states post-elections.

Newsweek editors Jason Lemon and Gray R. Thomas contributed to this report.