Several prominent Democrats seen as potential 2028 presidential contenders are stepping away from certain progressive positions, aiming to attract moderates and independents ahead of the next election cycle.

At a Glance

• Figures like Gavin Newsom and Josh Shapiro are adjusting messaging on cultural and policy issues to court middle-ground voters
• Statements on topics such as transgender athletes in sports and hunting rights reflect a strategic break from parts of the party’s base
• Democrats face diminished popularity after the 2024 election and are seeking ways to reconnect with swing-state voters
• The approach mirrors Bill Clinton’s early 1990s “Sister Souljah moment” strategy to signal moderation
• Reaction is mixed, with some seeing pragmatism and others warning of alienating progressives

Strategic Signals

California Governor Gavin Newsom recently called the participation of transgender women in girls’ sports “deeply unfair,” while Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro defended Sunday hunting—both remarks marking deliberate deviations from progressive orthodoxy. These statements have been amplified through appearances on right-leaning media outlets and podcasts, signaling a calculated effort to soften partisan lines.

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The tactic is drawing comparisons to Bill Clinton’s strategy in the 1990s, when distancing from parts of the Democratic base helped win centrist support. Party strategists say the approach reflects an understanding that regaining White House control will require appealing to voters outside the party’s core coalition.

Balancing Act

Polling suggests that Democrats lost ground with moderates and independents in key swing states during the 2024 cycle, contributing to Republican victories in competitive regions. While repositioning on select cultural and policy issues could help rebuild trust with these voters, it risks diminishing enthusiasm among progressive activists and younger voters who expect steadfast advocacy on social issues.

Some observers argue that subtle shifts in rhetoric, rather than wholesale policy changes, could achieve a balance—signaling openness to diverse perspectives without undermining the party’s identity. This, they contend, might preserve the Democratic base while re-engaging persuadable voters in contested states.

Long-Term Stakes

The recalibration effort may define the tone and scope of the 2028 Democratic primary. Candidates will likely face pressure to articulate how they can expand the party’s reach without alienating loyal supporters. With early campaign maneuvers already under way, the Democratic field’s ability to manage this internal tension could prove decisive in shaping both primary outcomes and general election competitiveness.

For now, the moves of prominent figures suggest that the race for the 2028 nomination has begun not just in fundraising and early-state visits, but in the deliberate crafting of a message that resonates across ideological divides.

Sources

Washington Post
Associated Press
NBC News