2028 Presidential Race: Early Polling and Candidates
While the 2026 midterms are the immediate focus, the 2028 presidential race is already taking shape. Trump is constitutionally ineligible for a third term, creating an open Republican primary for the first time since 2016. Democrats must rebuild after back-to-back losses.
Republican 2028 Potential Candidates
| Candidate | Favorable (R primary) | Current Role |
|---|---|---|
| JD Vance | 54% | Vice President |
| Ron DeSantis | 38% | Former Governor (FL term-limited) |
| Glenn Youngkin | 28% | Governor of Virginia |
| Marco Rubio | 35% | Secretary of State |
| Tim Scott | 24% | Senator (SC) |
Democratic 2028 Potential Candidates
| Candidate | Favorable (D primary) | Current Role |
|---|---|---|
| Gavin Newsom | 32% | Governor of California (term-limited 2026) |
| Josh Shapiro | 28% | Governor of Pennsylvania |
| Pete Buttigieg | 25% | Former Transportation Secretary |
| Gretchen Whitmer | 22% | Governor of Michigan |
| Wes Moore | 18% | Governor of Maryland |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the frontrunners for 2028 president?
Early 2028 polling shows JD Vance as the Republican primary frontrunner with 54% favorable among Republican voters. Democrats are wide open, with Gavin Newsom (32%), Josh Shapiro (28%), and Pete Buttigieg (25%) among the most discussed. The 2026 midterms will significantly shape who emerges as the frontrunner.
Who can’t run for president in 2028?
Donald Trump is constitutionally ineligible for a third presidential term under the 22nd Amendment. Any candidate who served two full terms cannot run again. Biden is also ineligible due to the 22nd Amendment after his one term. The 2028 race will be the first since 2000 to feature no incumbent president or VP from the previous election cycle.