CNN data analyst Harry Enten described the Democratic Party as being in an unusually fractured state ahead of the 2028 presidential election. Speaking with CNN host Kate Boulduan, Enten highlighted internal division and a lack of clear leadership as key signs of trouble for the party.
The conversation touched on Vice President Kamala Harris, who recently ruled out a run for California governor in 2026—leading to speculation that she might instead aim for a second presidential bid.
Boulduan asked Enten what current polling suggests about Harris’ chances. “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” Enten replied. “To be honest, things don’t look promising for her.”
He cited betting markets that show California Governor Gavin Newsom leading the pack with 20%, followed by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez at 15%, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at 9%, and both Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Harris tied at 6%. “So if the plan is to skip the governor’s race for a 2028 presidential run, the markets clearly aren’t buying it,” Enten said.
Boulduan then asked about the state of the Democratic Party overall.
“Right now, Democrats are more divided than we’ve seen in recent history—it’s messier than a hoarder’s basement,” Enten said. In past cycles, a dominant frontrunner usually emerged early—Biden in 2020, Clinton in 2008 and 2016, Gore in 2000 and 2004—each polling above 25% in the early stages. “This time, no Democratic candidate is polling that high. There is no clear leader, which means anyone considering a run in 2028 has an open field,” Enten explained.
When asked if the party’s image is contributing to this leadership vacuum, Enten confirmed: “Yes, the Democratic brand is at rock bottom.” He pointed to recent polling: The Wall Street Journal showed the party 30 points underwater in favorability, while both CNN and Gallup had them at minus 26 points. Enten attributed much of the negative sentiment to dissatisfaction within the Democratic base itself.
“The base wants something new,” Enten said. “We’ll see who eventually wins their support—but whoever it is, it’s wide open and unpredictable.”
Source: MEDIAITE
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