Senate Democrats are expressing growing skepticism about former Vice President Kamala Harris’s chances in a potential 2028 presidential run following her sweeping loss to Donald Trump last November. Yet despite her defeat in all seven battleground states and a loss in the popular vote, few Democratic senators are willing to rule her out entirely.
Harris, 60, reentered the national spotlight last week with a pointed speech in San Francisco criticizing Trump’s early actions in office, calling them “the greatest man-made economic crisis in modern presidential history.” Her remarks — and tone — reminded many of a campaign speech, sparking fresh speculation about her future political ambitions.
Some Democrats believe she may first consider a run for California governor in 2026. Others see her as a possible contender in 2028, despite her disappointing 2024 campaign. One unnamed Democratic senator gave a blunt assessment of her prospects: “No.” The senator added, “She had her chance, the American people delivered their verdict, and she should move on.”
Others were more measured. Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), a former presidential candidate himself, said Harris could still contribute meaningfully to the political conversation, noting that “every election is unique.” While not declaring her a front-runner, Hickenlooper said she could “add value” and offer a “valuable perspective” to the Democratic Party’s ongoing debate about its priorities.
Supporters argue Harris’s brief general election campaign — just 107 days after President Biden dropped out in July — gave her little time to build a winning coalition. Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) acknowledged that Harris will likely face stiff competition, but said “she’s a potential candidate” and praised her talent and experience.
Strategist Steve Jarding echoed that view, noting that Harris raised over $1 billion during the race and still commands a large donor base. “Who has a better résumé, for instance?” he asked, though he acknowledged concerns about a legal deal involving her husband’s law firm and the Trump administration.
Still, Harris’s inability to carry key states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin — even while massively outspending Trump — remains a sore point for many Democrats. The ripple effects were felt down-ballot, as Democrats lost their Senate majority.
“She’s a strikingly attractive and effective candidate,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). “The question is whether she’s the best candidate — and that will be up for debate.”
