Wes Moore Declines 2028 Presidential Bid as Other Democrats Eye the White House

With the 2028 presidential race beginning to take shape, several prominent Democrats are already appearing on shortlists for potential contenders. Familiar names such as former Vice President Kamala Harris, ex-Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and California Governor Gavin Newsom are widely expected to compete for the Democratic nomination.

However, one rising star in the party is publicly stepping back from the spotlight—for now.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore, often mentioned as a possible future national candidate due to his charisma, military background, and successful 2022 gubernatorial campaign, says he has no intention of running for president in 2028. Despite his growing profile and increasing national engagements, Moore made it clear that his focus remains on serving Maryland.

In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Moore was direct: “I’m not running,” he stated when asked about a potential 2028 bid. He also emphasized that he is not positioning himself as a contender for the vice presidency either.

Moore’s remarks come as speculation continues to swirl around his political future. While the governor has gained national attention through high-profile events and appearances—such as his upcoming speech at the Blue Palmetto Dinner in South Carolina, an early presidential primary state—he insists those trips are aimed at economic development, not political maneuvering.

“People should get very used to me going all over the country bringing business back to Maryland,” Moore said after a recent event in Annapolis, where he spoke at a dedication ceremony honoring the late Congressman Parren Mitchell. “That’s exactly what I plan on doing as long as I’m governor.”

Currently in the third year of his first term, Moore is expected to seek re-election in 2026. With Maryland leaning heavily Democratic, many political observers believe he stands a strong chance of winning a second term. Moore noted that the challenges facing the state demand his full attention, especially as Maryland navigates a period of economic transition and recovery.

While Moore steps aside from the early presidential buzz, another Democratic figure is actively cultivating a national presence.

Pete Buttigieg, who served as Transportation Secretary under President Biden and ran for president in 2020, is drawing increasing attention as a likely 2028 contender. Having decided against running for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate or gubernatorial seats, Buttigieg’s recent moves suggest a renewed focus on positioning himself for a second presidential campaign.

This week, Buttigieg was in Washington, D.C., attending events with Democratic-aligned digital content creators and participating in various media appearances. His approach is notably modern, leaning into podcast interviews and online forums to connect with a broader audience—particularly younger voters and independents.

“I’m using my voice best I can in traditional media and new media,” Buttigieg said in an interview with the Washington Examiner. “I’m going to continue having conversations with neighbors, with voters, talking about how we could have a better way. I don’t know what that means for me politically or professionally yet, but I know that’s what I need to be doing right now.”

Political analysts and party insiders have praised Buttigieg’s communication skills, with New York Times columnist Ezra Klein previously describing him as the Democratic Party’s most effective and relatable communicator. That reputation has only grown as Buttigieg engages more deeply with the online landscape.

His strategy has been noticed by digital influencers as well. Sammy Kanter, CEO of the political media brand Girl and the Gov, called Buttigieg’s recent outreach “on point” and well-timed for the current political climate.

“It’s shadow primary season,” Kanter said. “He’s going on podcasts and meeting Americans where they are. He’s speaking to voters across the political spectrum, interacting with content creators, and taking digital engagement seriously. That’s exactly where political conversation is happening today.”

Buttigieg’s ability to distill complex political topics into clear and engaging language has helped him stand out, especially in a media environment increasingly shaped by short-form videos, livestreams, and viral moments. His appearances on popular platforms contrast sharply with the more traditional campaign styles of older party leaders.

During the 2024 campaign, former President Donald Trump was praised by supporters for appearing on platforms like The Joe Rogan Experience, which has a wide and politically diverse listener base. Democrats like Buttigieg appear to be adopting similar tactics to connect with a new generation of voters.

As the 2028 race gradually heats up, names like Harris, Newsom, and Buttigieg will likely remain central to Democratic conversations. Meanwhile, Wes Moore is choosing a different path—at least for now—keeping his focus firmly on Maryland, even as national attention follows him.