The US race for 2028 has begun - here's how it might play out

The US 2028 presidential race has officially commenced, with key factors shaping its potential trajectory. Midterm elections yielded a Democratic majority in Congress, yet a full victory for Democrats in 2028 remains uncertain. They must present policies extending beyond targeting former President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, Republicans can use the next two years to refocus on voter concerns.

Economy dominates voters' minds, followed by the Iran war driving up fuel costs. Political commentator Robert Garcia cautioned against focusing solely on revenge against Trump and his associates, as it may not address Americans' core needs. Democrats must prove their policy relevance at both state and national levels to secure a strong position for 2028.

Speculation is rampant about potential Democratic nominees. Kamala Harris, despite losing the 2024 bid, remains a strong contender, especially given her administration's handling of issues like the Gaza war. Jon Ossoff, re-elected to the Senate in Georgia, and progressive firebrand Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are other names in the mix.

Republicans, meanwhile, must pivot to address kitchen-table issues such as jobs, the economy, and foreign conflicts to reclaim the White House. Vice President Mike Pence is favored for the nomination, but his ties to Trump pose challenges. Other candidates include Senators Marco Rubio, Ted Cruz, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The race is far from decided, with the midterms themselves serving as a referendum on the current administration's performance.