The wheels are already turning for the 2027 presidential election, only a short eight months after the last. It appears the Democrats are hedging their bets on potential nominees, despite the immediate past casting long and controversial shadows. Kamala Harris, once lauded as a beacon of hope for the party, may throw her hat into the ring, despite an underwhelming stint as Vice President. Even with her established name and plentiful campaign funds, Harris couldn’t out-manoeuvre a convicted criminal, casting doubts on her viability as a candidate.
Spectators have noted Harris’ strong ties to Joe Biden may well hinder her chances; the Democratic cadre growing restless with this association. Instead of pursuing the presidency, Harris might try her luck at the California governorship. Although this role would suit her mediocre political performance better, it still remains a dubious assertion.
Supposedly considered Barack Obama’s 2024 choice, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan could be an option for the Democrats. At the relatively youthful age of 46 and already having served two terms as Governor, she brings certain strengths to the table. However, her narrow focus on tangible accomplishments and a lack of national appeal put her on shaky ground when considered for the biggest national stage.
Furthermore, Whitmer is facing backlash from stern pandemic restrictions that ended up restricting her own emergency powers. Such misjudgments render her claims of practical accomplishment less convincing, adding another layer of doubt to her candidacy.
The Democratic party also appears to be eyeing Gov. Wes Moore of Maryland. He offers a fresh face, paired with a healthy resume featuring Rhodes Scholar and Army Captain. Even being an African American governor in Maryland does not guarantee his appeal on the national front. His push for ‘work, wages, and wealth’ might be commendable, but without national recognition, he remains a risky bet.
Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania presents a tricky dynamic for the Democrats. Although he is known for his intelligence and argumentative prowess, progressives seem disenchanted with his centrist inclination while his stance supporting Israel stirs discontent among Pro-Palestinian groups.
Gov. Gavin Newsom of California rings bells for his intellect and campaign skills but his style might be too polished, too ‘Hollywood’ for the working-class American. While his attempts to shape progressivism to suit swinging-voter needs might gain him the support of the California delegates, his overall appeal continues to be questionable.
Ro Khanna, a U.S. representative from California, stands as an articulate and intelligent voice on the party’s left flank. However, his lack of national prominence and a potentially ‘too progressive’ image, especially in a state already contested by Newsom and Harris, challenges his prospects.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also appears on the Democrats’ radar. While her youth, working-class roots, and significant fundraising capacity may catch the public eye, her left-leaning, populist appeal could be too radical for many voters. The Democrat professionals fear she could risk the party’s future if selected.
Pete Buttigieg, combining wit with intelligence and military experience, was once a hopeful. However, his performance in the Biden cabinet is a mixed bag, with both supporters and detractors. His spotless performance in the 2020 election can’t erase concerns about his ability within the key Democrat ranks.
Then, Gov. Andy Beshear of Kentucky, while proven to be a sensible choice, is considered somewhat out of step with current Democratic trends. His ability to secure votes in a deeply conservative state doesn’t necessarily mean he can appeal to a national audience of diverse voters.
Finally, Gov. JB Pritzker of Illinois rounds up the list of potential Democratic options. With the capability to fund his own billion-dollar campaign, and a family that owns the Hyatt hotel chain, Pritzker provides a combination of wealth and liberal causes. Yet, his image as a political boss and a billionaire in a party increasingly skeptical of billionaire candidates, coupled with his track record of spending in a state burdened by public employee pension debt, raises eyebrows.
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