Vice President Kamala Harris is rapidly consolidating her position as the Democratic Party's heir apparent for the 2028 presidential election, with party leaders and major donors increasingly aligning behind her potential candidacy.
Despite facing challenging poll numbers throughout her tenure as vice president, senior Democrats are now actively working to bolster Harris's political standing. This coordinated effort comes as the party looks toward the post-Biden era and seeks to maintain unity ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The Unspoken Succession Plan
Multiple sources within Democratic circles confirm that what was once whispered in Washington corridors is now becoming explicit strategy. Party elders view Harris as the natural successor to lead the ticket in 2028, creating what some insiders describe as an "informal succession plan" that's gaining momentum.
One senior Democrat familiar with the discussions revealed: "There's a growing consensus that we need to unite behind Kamala. The alternative could be a messy primary that weakens our eventual nominee."
Building the War Chest
Financial backing is already materialising, with key Democratic donors quietly positioning themselves behind Harris's anticipated run. Several major fundraising events are being planned for early 2025, aimed at building what one strategist called "the financial infrastructure for a dominant primary campaign."
The financial commitment signals that despite public polling concerns, the party's money class sees Harris as their best bet to maintain control of the White House.
Polling Challenges and Opportunities
Current polling data presents a mixed picture for Harris. While she faces unfavourable numbers in some national surveys, her allies point to several factors that could work in her favour:
- Strong support among key Democratic constituencies
- Potential historic significance as the first female president
- Growing name recognition and executive experience
- Limited viable alternatives within the party
One Democratic strategist noted: "Polls today are virtually meaningless for an election four years away. What matters is the institutional support she's building right now."
The Republican Landscape
The ultimate shape of the 2028 race will depend significantly on the Republican field. With Donald Trump's political future uncertain and several GOP governors positioning themselves for national runs, Harris may face a very different opponent than current speculation suggests.
Some Democratic operatives privately suggest that running against certain Republican candidates could actually work to Harris's advantage, particularly if the GOP nominates someone seen as too extreme by moderate voters.
As one longtime party insider concluded: "The pieces are falling into place. Unless something dramatic changes, Kamala Harris will be the Democratic nominee in 2028. The question isn't if she'll run, but how she'll run."
