Top 2028 Dem Candidates Vie for Black Voter Support
Potential 2028 Democratic presidential contenders are courting Black voters early, meeting with influential leaders like Rev. Al Sharpton as they jockey for position.
As the 2028 presidential election cycle begins to take shape, several prominent Democratic figures are making early overtures to the critical Black voting bloc. Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania was just one of the potential candidates who met with the Rev. Al Sharpton in New York this week, part of a broader effort to build relationships and gain support within the African American community.
Shapiro, who is widely expected to join the crowded Democratic primary field, sat down with Sharpton and other civil rights leaders to discuss issues ranging from economic empowerment to criminal justice reform. The Pennsylvania governor is part of a growing contingent of Democrats eyeing the White House who recognize the crucial role Black voters will play in securing the party's nomination and, ultimately, the general election.
"Black voters have been the backbone of the Democratic Party for decades, and any serious presidential contender knows they have to earn that support," said Jamal Simmons, a Democratic strategist and former Obama administration official. "These early outreach efforts are about building trust and demonstrating an understanding of the issues that matter most to the African American community."
Beyond Shapiro, other potential 2028 candidates like California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, and former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg have all made similar overtures in recent months. The flurry of activity underscores the high stakes involved, as Democrats look to replicate the success of the Biden-Harris ticket in 2020, which saw record turnout and support from Black voters.
"There's a recognition that the road to the White House runs through the Black community," said Adrianne Shropshire, executive director of BlackPAC, a progressive political organization. "These candidates know they have to do the work to earn that support, and that means engaging on the issues that matter most."
For Shapiro and others, that means highlighting their records on issues like criminal justice reform, economic development, and voting rights - all key priorities for Black voters. It's a delicate balance, however, as they must also appeal to the broader Democratic electorate in a crowded primary field.
"The road ahead is long and treacherous, but the smart money is on the candidates who can effectively bridge the gap between the party's progressive and moderate wings," Simmons said. "And for Democrats, that often comes down to how well they can connect with and mobilize Black voters."
Source: The New York Times
