Kamala Harris has taken an early lead in the prospective 2028 Democratic presidential field, securing 50% support among Democratic voters, according to a recent Harvard CAPS/Harris poll.
The survey, conducted between April 23 and 26 among 2,745 registered voters, places Gavin Newsom in second position with 22%, followed by Josh Shapiro at 9%, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez at 8%, and J. B. Pritzker at around 6%.
Harris has gained nine percentage points since March, widening her advantage in a race where no major Democratic candidate has formally declared.
The surge comes as Harris has openly indicated she is considering another presidential run.
Speaking at a National Action Network event in April, she said she is “thinking about” a 2028 bid; her clearest signal yet.
Having served as vice president from 2021 to 2025 and as the Democratic nominee in 2024, Harris has remained active on the national stage through public appearances and travel, maintaining visibility within party circles.
Crosstab data shows strong backing for Harris among key Democratic groups, including 71% support from Black Democrats, and 50% each among Hispanic and Asian Democrats. Among White Democrats, she leads with 41%, ahead of Newsom’s 26%.
On the Republican side, J D Vance leads the early 2028 field with 48% support. He is followed by Donald Trump Jr. at 18%, Marco Rubio at 16%, Ron DeSantis at 9%, and Tucker Carlson at 4%.
The broader poll reflects a challenging national mood. Only 37% of respondents believe the country is on the right track, while economic concerns; especially inflation and cost of living; remain the top issues. Just 34% say the U.S. economy is moving in the right direction.
The online poll carries a margin of error of ±1.87 percentage points and is part of a monthly survey tracking political sentiment ahead of the 2026 midterms and the 2028 presidential race.
