Democrats' 2028 presidential auditions begin in Denver
A who's who of Democratic power players descends on Denver this week to plot the party's future, fresh off its sweeping midterm victories . Why it matters: The gathering gives Democrats' rising stars an early stage to test their 2028 message, and explore whether Colorado's red-to- deep-blue shift could offer a national playbook. Driving the news: The three-day " What's Next " conference, starting…
The Democratic Party's 2028 presidential auditions have kicked off in Denver, as a prominent group of political figures gathers to discuss the party's future. This three-day conference, titled "What's Next," commenced on Thursday and is set to feature a host of Democratic heavyweights and potential presidential contenders, such as House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Texas Senator-elect James Talarico, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Colorado Governor-elect Phil Weiser, Senator Michael Bennet, Representative Joe Neguse, and Denver Mayor Mike Johnston.
The event is being organized by Majority Democrats, a group dedicated to shaping the party's direction. Organizers chose Denver as the host due to the state's remarkable transformation into a Democratic stronghold over the past two decades. The conference aims to dissect the successes and shortcomings of the recent midterm elections and explore ways to convert these victories into lasting power.
Denver's Mayor Mike Johnston, a Majority Democrats member, took the initiative to bring the conference to his city after location scouting began approximately a year ago. Johnston, who will be delivering opening and closing remarks and engaging in private meetings with the majority of the attendees, plans to pitch Denver's strategies for addressing homelessness, housing, and public safety as national models. He also intends to advocate for additional federal funding for affordable housing and his universal child care plan.
Johnston believes that Colorado's progressive stances on gun safety, immigration, and LGBTQ rights have bolstered the party's majority in the state, contrary to concerns that such positions might alienate voters elsewhere. He asserts, "Leading on those values has made our majority stronger here, not weaker." Moreover, with Denver among three finalists to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention, Johnston views this week's gathering as a kind of audition for his city, hoping to demonstrate that the 2028 presidential cycle can indeed commence and culminate in Denver.
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