Former Vice President Kamala Harris may still top early Democratic polls, but her grip on the 2028 race is slipping fast — and potential challengers are lining up.
While Harris remains the most recognizable name among Democratic voters, a new McLaughlin & Associates poll shows her support has plunged from 36% in February to just 25%. That sharp decline is creating space for other high-profile Democrats like California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to step in.
Ocasio-Cortez and Newsom are now tied at 9%, with Buttigieg close behind at 8%.
JD Vance Leads for Republicans, But Slips Too
On the Republican side, Vice President JD Vance still leads the field with 31%, although that’s down from 43% in April. Donald Trump Jr. remains in second place with 19%, just shy of his January peak. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis holds steady in third at 8%.
The poll arrives as potential 2028 contenders are quietly testing the waters. Both Newsom and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear made visits to South Carolina this month, signaling early interest ahead of the critical primary there.
Musk’s Third Party Idea Fails to Inspire Voters
Meanwhile, Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s idea to fund a new third party is gaining little traction with voters. A new Rasmussen Reports survey found that just 27% support the move, while 48% say it’s a bad idea.
As the 2028 race slowly takes shape, the Democratic field looks increasingly unsettled — and Kamala Harris’s shrinking lead is turning what once looked like a clear path into a wide-open contest.
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