The President is barely into his first year. But now rumors are already swirling.
And a sudden announcement about Trump’s possible replacement rattled Capitol Hill.
### Raimondo Signals 2028 Presidential Ambitions
Former Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo has thrown her hat into the ring for a potential 2028 presidential bid, signaling her readiness to lead while acknowledging the Democratic Party’s need for a major overhaul after its 2024 election setbacks.
Speaking at a University of Chicago Institute of Politics event, Raimondo responded to a question from David Axelrod about her political future with a clear affirmation: “Yes.” Her announcement marks an early step in what promises to be a crowded and contentious Democratic primary season.
Raimondo, who served as Biden’s commerce secretary from 2021 to January 2025 and as Rhode Island’s governor from 2015 to 2021, emphasized her deep commitment to public service.
“I care deeply about this country. I’ve dedicated 15 years to public service, and if I think there’s a big way for me to serve again, including running, I’ll do it,” she said.
Yet, she also displayed a pragmatic streak, adding, “But I also, if I thought somebody else would be better, or better able to win, I’d get behind that person in a minute.” Her willingness to step aside for a stronger candidate underscores her focus on party unity, a critical issue for Democrats still reeling from recent losses.
### Democratic Party Faces Identity Crisis
Raimondo didn’t shy away from addressing the Democratic Party’s struggles, particularly the lingering perception that it is disconnected from everyday Americans. She called for deep introspection to rebuild trust and relevance.
“How will we overcome this impression that we’re elitist, we’re out of touch, we don’t have our sense on the culture?” she asked. Her blunt assessment highlights the uphill battle Democrats face in shedding labels that have alienated voters and fueled Republican gains under President Donald Trump.
The former commerce secretary pointed to historical precedent, noting the 12-year gap between Democratic presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton as evidence of the time it may take to recalibrate.
“There’s so much to do. I don’t know how many cycles it’s gonna take,” Raimondo said. “There’s a reason there were a dozen years between [former Presidents Jimmy] Carter and [Bill] Clinton. And I don’t know where we are in that cycle.” Her remarks suggest a long-term perspective, urging Democrats to rethink their platform, policies, and messaging to counter the narrative of elitism pushed by Republicans and amplified by Trump’s populist rhetoric.
### Crowded Field Looms as Democrats and Republicans Gear Up
With the 2028 election still over three years away, Raimondo’s announcement positions her among a growing list of Democratic hopefuls. Names like former Vice President Kamala Harris, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro are already circulating as potential contenders, alongside other congressional and state leaders.
Pritzker, in particular, has been making moves, recently headlining a fundraiser in New Hampshire, a key early primary state, to bolster his 2028 prospects.
On the Republican side, Vice President JD Vance emerges as a frontrunner to carry Trump’s mantle, as the president, barred from a third term, has playfully teased the idea of running again.
Raimondo’s entry into the 2028 conversation sets the stage for a fierce ideological battle, with Democrats desperate to reclaim ground lost to a Republican Party emboldened by Trump’s enduring influence. As Raimondo and her party grapple with their identity, the road to 2028 will test their ability to shed the elitist label and reconnect with voters alienated by years of perceived cultural disconnect.
