Harris to Speak at Sharpton Conference, Fueling 2028 Speculation

Former VP plans Southern tour after high-profile appearance at civil rights leader's event.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 4:25pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former Vice President Kamala Harris is set to kick off a speaking tour with an appearance at the National Action Network conference hosted by civil rights leader Al Sharpton, a move seen by many as a signal that she is laying the groundwork for a potential 2028 presidential run.

Why it matters

Harris' decision to headline Sharpton's high-profile event and then embark on a Southern speaking tour suggests she is positioning herself for a future national campaign, as the Democratic party looks to rebuild its bench of potential presidential candidates.

The details

After her speech at the National Action Network conference in New York, Harris plans to travel through the American South, where she will address a number of state Democratic party functions. This tour is widely viewed as an opportunity for Harris to raise her national profile and connect with key voting blocs ahead of a potential 2028 run.

  • Harris is scheduled to speak at the National Action Network conference on April 5, 2026.
  • Following the conference, Harris will embark on a speaking tour through the American South.

The players

Kamala Harris

The former Vice President of the United States, who is widely expected to be considering a run for the presidency in 2028.

Al Sharpton

The civil rights leader and founder of the National Action Network, a prominent African American advocacy organization.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Kamala Harris' decision to headline the National Action Network conference is a clear signal that she is laying the groundwork for a potential 2028 presidential run.”

— James Carville, Democratic Strategist

What’s next

Political observers will be closely watching Harris' speech at the National Action Network conference and her subsequent Southern tour for any indications that she is preparing to launch a 2028 presidential campaign.

The takeaway

Harris' high-profile appearance at Sharpton's conference and planned Southern tour suggest she is positioning herself for a potential 2028 presidential run, as the Democratic party looks to rebuild its bench of national candidates.