2028 Democratic Presidential Hopefuls Court Black Voters at Sharpton Conference/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Democratic leaders gathered in New York at Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network conference, signaling early movement toward the 2028 presidential race. Several potential candidates addressed African American activists, a critical Democratic voting bloc. Speakers criticized Donald Trump while outlining visions for racial and economic justice.
Democratic 2028 Race Quick Looks
- 2028 Democratic presidential field already taking shape
- National Action Network conference hosted by Rev. Al Sharpton
- Black voters remain key Democratic primary influence
- Multiple governors, senators, and former officials attending
- Josh Shapiro delivers strong criticism of Donald Trump
- Kamala Harris scheduled to speak
- Gavin Newsom absent due to family commitment
- Candidates emphasize racial justice and economic equality
- Midterm elections seen as early political testing ground
Deep Look: Democrats Court Black Voters Ahead of 2028
NEW YORK — The Democratic Party’s early maneuvering for the 2028 presidential election is already underway, as potential contenders gathered in New York to appeal to African American activists at Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network conference.
The multi-day gathering has become an influential platform for Democratic hopefuls seeking to build relationships with Black leaders and voters — a constituency that has historically played a decisive role in Democratic primaries.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro kicked off the event with a forceful speech criticizing President Donald Trump, warning that the country is becoming increasingly divided under his leadership. Shapiro argued that the United States is facing growing threats of antisemitism, Islamophobia, racism, and other forms of discrimination.
“There’s more chaos, there’s more cruelty in our world,” Shapiro told attendees. He emphasized that while political disagreements are inevitable, the country should still expect honorable leadership at the highest level — something he claimed is currently lacking.
Shapiro’s appearance underscored his rising national profile. Already considered a strong contender for the Democratic nomination in 2028, the Pennsylvania governor is expected to secure reelection in his battleground state, further strengthening his political credentials.
While the 2028 Democratic primary is still years away, the conference reflects how early positioning has begun. More than half a dozen potential presidential candidates are scheduled to address the gathering, each seeking to connect with one of the party’s most influential voting blocs.
Rev. Al Sharpton, founder and president of the National Action Network, said he invited prospective candidates to present their ideas and priorities.
“Everybody’s talking about who may run for president,” Sharpton said. “I want to first know what their vision is now, and what they’re doing now.”
Among those speaking at the conference are Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, California Representative Ro Khanna, and Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris — the Democratic Party’s most recent presidential nominee — is also scheduled to speak. Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom, another frequently mentioned potential candidate, will not attend due to a family commitment, although his team noted he previously met with Sharpton earlier this year.
The conference highlights the significant influence African American voters hold in Democratic primaries. The 2020 presidential race offered a clear example: Pete Buttigieg performed strongly in early contests in Iowa and New Hampshire, but Joe Biden’s overwhelming support from Black voters in South Carolina helped propel him to the nomination.
Biden’s deep connections with the African American community, along with his perceived electability, helped him overcome strong competition from progressive candidates such as Senator Bernie Sanders.
As Democrats prepare for 2028, many potential contenders are balancing criticism of Trump with broader policy messaging. Several speakers emphasized that Democrats must present a positive vision for the country rather than simply opposing Republican policies.
Representative Ro Khanna, a progressive voice aligned with Sanders, urged future candidates to embrace a “moral vision” grounded in civil rights traditions. He suggested candidates draw inspiration from historical figures such as Frederick Douglass and Martin Luther King Jr. while addressing modern challenges like economic inequality and racial justice.
Khanna said successful candidates must connect their platforms to civil rights history while offering solutions to contemporary issues, including peace, equity, and fairness in economic policy.
During his remarks, Shapiro also highlighted his record and electability. He described Pennsylvania as the “ultimate swing state” and defended diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. He also emphasized accountability for law enforcement, stating that police must be held responsible for misconduct.
Shapiro repeatedly framed the upcoming midterm elections as a referendum on Trump’s leadership and policies in Washington.
Ashley Sharpton, daughter of Rev. Al Sharpton, noted strong audience engagement during the first day of speeches. She said attendees were eager to hear from candidates and assess their energy and consistency.
“That’s why people come,” she said. “They want to get some of that energy, that consistency, that base.”
As the 2028 race gradually takes shape, events like the National Action Network conference are expected to play an increasingly influential role. With no clear frontrunner yet emerging, candidates are focusing on building relationships and defining their vision for the Democratic Party’s future.
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