Kamala Harris has a great chance of becoming the Democratic nominee for the 2028 [1] U.S. presidential election despite her 2024 [2] loss.
This assessment suggests that prior electoral defeats do not necessarily disqualify high-profile party leaders from future bids for the presidency. It highlights the ongoing internal dynamics of the Democratic party as it begins to look toward the next election cycle.
Kelly Jane Torrance, editor of the Washington Star, said that Harris remains a formidable figure in the primary process. While acknowledging previous failures in the 2024 [2] race, Torrance said the prospect of a Harris nomination in 2028 [1] is a reality. "It’s incredible, but it’s true," Torrance said.
The path to the nomination may involve a direct confrontation with other prominent Democratic leaders. Torrance said California Governor Gavin Newsom is the primary rival for Harris in a potential 2028 [1] contest. The competition would likely center on contrasting records of governance and party appeal.
Torrance offered a critical view of Newsom's prospects, suggesting his appeal may be limited to his image. "Her biggest opponent ... is Gavin Newsom; that guy, he’s got great hair, but that’s about it," Torrance said. She said Newsom would be running on policies in California that she characterized as completely failed.
As the party evaluates potential candidates, the influence of former presidents and established political hubs remains significant. This speculation comes as political figures continue to gather at high-profile events, such as the Obama Presidential Center opening weekend on June 20 and 21, 2026 [3], to network and build coalitions for future cycles.
“Kamala Harris has a great chance of becoming the Democratic nominee for the 2028 U.S. presidential election.”
The projection that Kamala Harris remains a top contender for 2028 indicates a belief that the Democratic primary infrastructure may prioritize name recognition and established leadership over a candidate's previous electoral record. By positioning Gavin Newsom as her chief rival, the analysis suggests the 2028 primary could become a battle for the identity of the party's progressive wing, pitting two high-profile California politicians against one another.
