Democratic Governors Emerge as 2028 Contenders, Challenging Trump

Governors leverage legal battles and social media to position themselves for future White House runs

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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As the nation's governors convene in Washington, prominent Democratic state leaders are positioning themselves as potential 2028 presidential candidates. Figures like Gavin Newsom of California, Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, and Wes Moore of Maryland have demonstrated a willingness to challenge the Trump administration through legal action and social media, raising their national profiles. The dynamic between the governors and the White House could influence both parties' nomination battles, with the executive experience of these state leaders seen as valuable for future presidential runs.

Why it matters

The growing prominence of Democratic governors in challenging federal policies under the Trump administration has positioned them as potential leaders for the party, appealing to voters frustrated by the previous administration's approach. Their ability to leverage legal battles and social media to raise their national profiles could shape the 2028 presidential race.

The details

Several Democratic governors, including Gavin Newsom, Josh Shapiro, JB Pritzker, Andy Beshear, and Wes Moore, are being discussed as potential 2028 presidential contenders. These governors have demonstrated a willingness to confront the Trump administration, sometimes through legal action, over issues like transgender athlete policies, immigration enforcement, and congressional redistricting. The tension between the governors and the White House, including a recent exchange between Trump and Maryland's Wes Moore over a sewage spill, could influence both parties' nomination battles.

  • In February 2025, President Trump addressed the National Governors Association dinner and reception in the East Room of the White House.
  • On Thursday, as the National Governors Association convenes in Washington, prominent Democratic governors will be in the spotlight.

The players

Janet Mills

The Democratic governor of Maine, who is currently running for the U.S. Senate and facing a primary challenge from an upstart populist.

Gavin Newsom

The Democratic governor of California, who is being discussed as a potential 2028 presidential contender and has emphasized his leadership of the most populous U.S. state and the world's fourth-largest economy.

Josh Shapiro

The Democratic governor of Pennsylvania, who is also being considered as a potential 2028 presidential candidate.

JB Pritzker

The Democratic governor of Illinois, who is another potential 2028 presidential contender.

Andy Beshear

The Democratic governor of Kentucky, who is also being discussed as a potential 2028 presidential candidate.

Wes Moore

The Democratic governor of Maryland, who is also being considered as a potential 2028 presidential contender and has recently exchanged criticisms with President Trump on social media.

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What they’re saying

“See you in court.”

— Janet Mills, Governor of Maine (newsy-today.com)

“The invitation was a 'misunderstanding,' and that Democrats were invited with the exception of Governor Moore of Maryland and Gov. Jared Polis of Colorado.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States (newsy-today.com)

“Governors 'deal with the nuts and bolts of governing,' which can develop it difficult to gain broad public attention.”

— Larry Sabato, Political Analyst, University of Virginia (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.