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Factbox-Here are the Democrats taking early steps in potential 2028 White House bids
Early positioning
Democratic politicians are already making the kinds of moves usually associated with a presidential run, including visits to Iowa and other early primary states, fundraising, and national media appearances.
That activity suggests the party sees 2028 as an open contest rather than a coronation for one obvious successor to the current Republican president.
Open field
The lack of a dominant candidate matters because it leaves room for several governors and senators to test their appeal without immediately forcing the field to narrow.
That can help Democrats build depth, but it also means the party may spend the next year with competing messages and ambitions before settling on a frontrunner.
What comes next
The next major turning point is likely to come after the 2026 midterms, when candidates can better judge their fundraising strength, media attention, and state-level support.
Until then, the race is likely to remain fluid, with the most visible figures trying to turn early curiosity into durable national momentum.