Pete Buttigieg Indicates He May Run for 2028

Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has indicated he is leaning toward launching a campaign for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, offering his clearest signal yet about his political future. In an interview published on Monday, August 3, Buttigieg said he is "more inclined than not" to run, though he stopped short of a formal announcement.

The 44-year-old former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, made the comments during an episode of "The Diary of a CEO" podcast with host Steven Bartlett. He stated that any decision would require assessing what the presidency demands and whether he could offer something distinct. Buttigieg also emphasized the personal considerations involved, noting that becoming a father to twins adopted in 2021 has fundamentally changed his perspective on seeking high office.

Despite the caveats, early polling consistently places Buttigieg among the top tier of potential Democratic candidates. A July survey by Emerson College showed him leading the field with 19 percent support among likely Democratic primary voters, narrowly ahead of California Governor Gavin Newsom at 17 percent. Other polls present a fluid picture; a Manhattan Institute...