Chris Van Hollen on Democratic Socialists and a Possible 2028 Run

Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.)

The Hill

Van Hollen’s remarks arrive amid a growing split between the party’s establishment and a left-wing surge backed by DSA-aligned candidates. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has publicly distanced himself from the DSA agenda, rejecting proposals such as Medicare for All and the abolition of ICE.

Newsweek

• A Marquette Law School poll reported a net favorability rating of -30 for the DSA, with 24 % viewing the organization favorably and 54 % unfavorably.

Newsweek

• An Ipsos/Washington Post survey found a majority of Americans would not consider voting for a democratic-socialist candidate, even though individual policies associated with the movement—such as Medicare for All and higher taxes on the wealthy—enjoy majority support.

Newsweek

These figures illustrate the tension between policy popularity and brand perception that Democrats must navigate.

Newsweek

When asked about a potential 2028 presidential bid, Van Hollen confirmed he is “kicking the tires” and “testing the waters,” noting recent visits to New Hampshire and Iowa, the traditional early nominating states. He said Democrats need a clear vision that goes beyond opposition to President Donald Trump, stating that “Democrats need to be very clear not just what we’re against, but what we’re for.”

NBC NewsNewsweek

Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) has taken a harder line against the DSA, telling Fox Business that he and left-wing streamer Hasan Piker “can’t coexist with me.” Moskowitz argued that DSA-aligned activists are targeting Democratic seats in districts that Trump won in 2024, aiming to “take out a Democrat” rather than win general-election contests.

The Hill

• “I’m not going to sort of look into all these endorsements. I’m not going to reject an endorsement by certain individuals at the DSA. But I’m certainly not seeking the endorsement from the DSA,” — Van Hollen, senator

The Hill

• “Yes, they do, as part of the debate,” — Van Hollen, senator

Newsweek

• “Yes, of course they do, for me.” — Still

Newsweek

• “Democrats need to be very clear not just what we’re against, but what we’re for.” — Van Hollen, senator

NBC News

Van Hollen indicated he will continue to assess his options for 2028, while the broader party debate over the role of democratic socialists is expected to shape upcoming primary contests and strategy discussions.

Newsweek