With the 2024 presidential election still months away, several prominent Democrats are already signaling their potential interest in the 2028 race, breaking from the traditional practice of publicly downplaying presidential ambitions.

Historically, potential candidates would often deny any interest in a future presidential run, even while actively laying the groundwork for a campaign. This is now changing.

Several figures have publicly indicated a willingness to consider a run, including Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, showing a shift in political strategy.

Others, such as Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, are also mentioned as potential candidates, though their announcements have been less direct.

The shift in approach may be attributed to several factors, including the desire to raise their profile early, test the waters, and secure media attention.

The change also reflects how the political landscape has changed, with modern media, including social media and podcasts, driving a different level of transparency than in the past.

The early declarations allow potential candidates to build name recognition and potentially attract donors.

Political analysts predict that there are at least nineteen potential contenders for the Democratic nomination. The field is likely to narrow significantly as the process continues.

Many of these early contenders may lack significant name recognition, which gives them little to lose by expressing their interest.

The cost of covering these campaigns is high, but the interest in the early stages of the election cycle remains strong.