A new poll in New Hampshire, a state steeped in presidential tradition, reveals a surprising frontrunner for the 2028 Democratic nomination: former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Twenty percent of likely Democratic primary voters indicated they would support him if the election were held today, signaling a potential shift in the party’s landscape.
The survey, released by the University of New Hampshire, places Buttigieg ahead of several prominent figures. California Governor Gavin Newsom and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are tied for second place with 15% support, while former Vice President Kamala Harris and Senator Mark Kelly each garnered 10%. The results suggest a wide-open field with no clear dominant candidate emerging.
Buttigieg himself downplayed the poll’s implications, stating he isn’t currently focused on any future election. However, he acknowledged the positive sentiment, recalling his strong showing in the 2020 New Hampshire primary where he nearly matched Senator Bernie Sanders. That experience clearly resonated with voters in the Granite State.
This recent visit to New Hampshire marks Buttigieg’s third trip to an early-voting state since leaving his cabinet position. He’s also made appearances in South Carolina and Iowa, quietly laying groundwork and building relationships with local Democratic organizations. He’s carefully considering how his skills and experience might be applied in a future campaign.
During his New Hampshire swing, Buttigieg actively campaigned alongside key Democratic candidates, including Representative Chris Pappas, a leading contender for the Senate nomination. He also joined Representative Maggie Goodlander, demonstrating a commitment to supporting the party’s efforts in crucial races. These appearances are designed to bolster Democratic prospects in the upcoming midterms.
Buttigieg’s travel schedule extends beyond New England. He’s planning visits to Nevada, Ohio, Georgia, and Pennsylvania in the coming weeks, signaling a broad strategy to engage with voters and support candidates across diverse regions. He believes every corner of the country deserves attention and active political engagement.
Governor Newsom is also setting his sights on New Hampshire, scheduled to appear in Portsmouth next month to promote his new book. This will be his first visit to the state in two years, and it’s fueling speculation about his own potential presidential ambitions. His presence adds another layer of intrigue to the unfolding 2028 narrative.
Meanwhile, Representative Ocasio-Cortez recently faced scrutiny following a high-profile appearance at the Munich Security Conference. A question regarding potential U.S. intervention in Taiwan prompted a lengthy pause and a cautious response, drawing criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Some observers questioned her readiness for a national leadership role.
The incident in Munich sparked debate about Ocasio-Cortez’s foreign policy understanding and her ability to navigate complex international issues. While she remains a powerful voice within the Democratic party, the episode highlighted the challenges she may face as she considers a broader political future.
The early jockeying for position among these potential candidates underscores the intense competition expected in the 2028 Democratic primary. New Hampshire, with its long history of shaping presidential races, is once again at the center of the action, offering a crucial glimpse into the future of the party.
