Top Democrats' 2028 Online Campaign Prep

Early Signs of 2028 Presidential Campaigns

Several prominent Democrats are already laying the groundwork for potential presidential runs in 2028, as revealed by recent campaign finance filings. These efforts include recruiting donors, running online advertisements, and building national profiles to position themselves as viable candidates.

Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has emerged as a leading figure among potential contenders. His leadership PAC raised $1.6 million in the first half of the year, while several Democratic governors also managed to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars each. Together, these candidates have already spent millions on fundraising activities, including acquiring donor lists and running digital ads—key steps in preparing for a future presidential bid.

According to disclosures filed with the Federal Election Commission, much of the money has been directed toward activities that support long-term political ambitions. “If you're thinking about running for president in 2028, job number one is being seen doing everything you can to help Democrats win in 2026,” said Pete Giangreco, a longtime Democratic consultant who worked on Barack Obama’s campaigns. “Raising money for your leadership PAC allows you to travel, test out messages, and build your online following.”

While official campaign launches may come after the 2026 midterms, many rumored White House contenders already have leadership PACs. These allow them to raise and spend money without being tied to a specific election. The focus has largely been on growing their digital presence, with governors who have less national exposure running ads and investing in fundraising infrastructure.

Buttigieg, along with Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, has invested in acquiring donor lists—a critical expense for their leadership PACs. Beshear recently campaigned in South Carolina, an early voting state, while Whitmer appears less likely to run for president.

List-building is a strong indicator of political ambition, especially with online fundraising playing a key role in successful Democratic campaigns over the past decade. By purchasing or renting contact information from Democratic donors, candidates can more effectively target potential supporters, introduce themselves nationally, and convert some of those donors into their own.

“You want to build up a strong email and text list for a few reasons—it increases your name ID, helps raise money for other candidates, and then for yourself,” said Mike Nellis, a Democratic digital consultant. “If you’re not spending money on growing the biggest possible audience for yourself right now, then you’re being foolish.”

Leadership PACs also allow politicians in blue states to support competitive races by donating directly to vulnerable candidates or fundraising on their behalf. California Governor Gavin Newsom, for example, has long used his extensive email and text lists to raise money for other candidates. These efforts help build relationships across the country and foster goodwill within the party.

Digital advertising is another key tool for expanding name recognition and recruiting donors outside home states. Beshear’s PAC, In This Together, ran Facebook ads that emphasized the importance of small donations. “Your support helps us do what matters most: elect decent, compassionate leaders in Kentucky and nationwide,” the ad read.

Beshear’s group, which has $496,000 in cash on hand, spent $30,000 on digital advertising through the end of June. While the ads primarily targeted Kentucky, they also reached a national audience. Similarly, Whitmer’s Fight Like Hell PAC focused on Michigan users but also had some national promotion. Whitmer’s group has $2.6 million in cash on hand.

Buttigieg’s Win the Era PAC, which was largely dormant during his time in Biden’s administration, began running Facebook ads in July. It was the first time he had advertised on his personal page since ending his 2020 presidential campaign. “While my name won’t be on a ballot in 2026, I am committed to doing the work that must be done to rebuild trust in our system,” one ad read.

A person close to Buttigieg said he will continue traveling to support Democrats in 2026 and host more town halls. He employs a small staff through his PAC, which has $2.4 million in cash on hand.

Other potential 2028 candidates, such as Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Maryland Governor Wes Moore, are not currently raising federal funds. They are seeking reelection next year and do not have federal leadership PACs. Meanwhile, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is funding an advocacy group structured as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit, which avoids strict campaign finance reporting requirements.

Leadership PACs have also covered travel and other expenses to support 2028 bids. Beshear’s group spent $18,000 on polling in March and April, highlighting the early stage of these preparations. As the political landscape evolves, these efforts reflect a strategic approach to positioning candidates for future elections.