Full Breakdown
Buttigieg Leads Early Polling for 2028 Democratic Presidential Nomination in New Hampshire
2/20/2026, 6:49:49 AM
Current Polling Landscape
A recent University of New Hampshire Survey Center poll indicates that former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is the frontrunner among potential Democratic candidates for the 2028 presidential nomination. The poll, conducted between February 12-16, 2026, reveals that 20% of likely Democratic primary voters in New Hampshire would support Buttigieg if the primary were held today. He is followed by California Governor Gavin Newsom and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, both at 15%. Former Vice President Kamala Harris and Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona each garnered 10% support, while other candidates received single-digit backing.
Buttigieg's Campaign Activities
Buttigieg's recent trip to New Hampshire marks his third visit to an early voting state since leaving his position in the Biden administration. He is actively campaigning for local Democratic candidates, including Representative Chris Pappas, who is a frontrunner for the Senate nomination to succeed retiring Senator Jeanne Shaheen. Buttigieg expressed his commitment to supporting candidates and issues he believes in, stating, "I’m a big believer in going everywhere across the media landscape and geographically."
Upcoming Candidate Visits
In addition to Buttigieg, other potential candidates are making their presence felt in New Hampshire. Gavin Newsom is scheduled to visit Portsmouth on March 5 as part of his book tour for "Young Man in a Hurry." Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear will also be fundraising with local Democrats on March 7-8. The increased activity from these candidates underscores New Hampshire's significance in the early stages of the 2028 presidential race, especially as the Democratic National Committee (DNC) considers the state's status in the primary calendar.
Criticism of Ocasio-Cortez
While Buttigieg and Newsom are gaining traction, Ocasio-Cortez has faced criticism following a recent gaffe during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference. Her comments regarding U.S. military involvement in Taiwan drew scrutiny from both Republican and Democratic circles, with some strategists questioning her readiness for a national campaign. A veteran Democratic strategist remarked, "It is abundantly clear that AOC is not ready for prime time given her remarks in Europe."
Implications for the 2028 Race
The evolving dynamics of the 2028 Democratic primary are influenced by the DNC's deliberations on the primary calendar. New Hampshire's traditional role as the first-in-the-nation primary state is under threat, which could impact candidates' strategies and voter engagement. If the DNC opts to recognize another state for this position, it may discourage candidates from investing time and resources in New Hampshire, potentially reshaping the primary landscape.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Obviously, it feels good to be well received,” — Pete Buttigieg
- “I’m a big believer in going everywhere across the media landscape and geographically.” — Pete Buttigieg
- “It is abundantly clear that AOC is not ready for prime time given her remarks in Europe.” — Anonymous Democratic Strategist
As the 2028 presidential race unfolds, Buttigieg's early lead in polling and active campaigning in New Hampshire position him as a significant contender, while the implications of the DNC's decisions regarding the primary calendar remain to be seen.
