The anticipated Democratic presidential field for 2028 is shaping up to be highly competitive, with potential candidates already courting donors in Los Angeles and New York. However, California Governor Gavin Newsom, who once led hypothetical polls, is reportedly seeing his support wane among key contributors.
One Democratic insider described the current landscape as an "invasion" of potential candidates, highlighting a shift in donor interest. "We are about to be invaded, and it’s a wide-open field," the source told the New York Post. "We should probably lock the doors and grab hold of our wallets, and avoid the Regency and the Carlyle!"
The field is expected to include figures such as Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro.
Regarding Newsom, the insider stated, "He seems to have peaked too early." The source added that discussions are focusing more on the Department of Justice's investigation into Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, than on his political future. Newsom has previously suggested the investigation is politically motivated, aimed at finding a crime rather than addressing one.
"All of a sudden, Gavin Newsom with all his drama doesn’t seem as appealing as a Beshear or Osoff," the insider commented. Another source noted that while Newsom garners media attention, the donor orbit appears to be moving past him.
"Newsom is basically done" among some East Coast Democrats, according to one source, who cited "Titanic steamer trunks of baggage," including his past marriage to Kimberly Guilfoyle and the state of California, as contributing factors.
The article also mentioned New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as potentially preparing for a presidential run, evidenced by a significant campaign contribution to a Michigan Senate candidate. Former Obama Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel was also noted as potentially seeking a return to a Democratic administration.
The overarching theme among Democrats, according to the insider, is a focus on winning, rather than seeking a moral victory in the upcoming presidential election cycle.