Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen says he is exploring a 2028 presidential run, citing a need for the Democratic Party to offer a clearer alternative to the current political status quo.
Key facts
- •Senator Chris Van Hollen has visited New Hampshire and Iowa as part of his exploration of a potential 2028 presidential bid.
- •Van Hollen stated he is not interested in challenging Chuck Schumer for Senate Minority Leader.
- •The senator explicitly rejected Democratic Socialists of America platform goals, such as abolishing the Senate.
- •Van Hollen has served as a senator since 2017 after spending over a decade in the House of Representatives.
- •Other Democrats, including Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris, have also expressed interest in the 2028 presidential race.
Senator Chris Van Hollen, a Democrat from Maryland, confirmed on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that he is “kicking the tires” on a potential presidential campaign for 2028. Van Hollen stated that he is focused on defining what the Democratic Party stands for, rather than pursuing a leadership role in the Senate.
Focus on Party Direction
Van Hollen emphasized the need for a “healthy debate” within the Democratic Party, arguing that the party has not yet provided a clear alternative to the Trump administration. He expressed that his interest in a 2028 run stems from a desire to ensure the economy works for all citizens, particularly working people. When asked if he was interested in challenging Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for party leadership, Van Hollen stated his focus is on the party's platform rather than internal Senate positions.
Exploration and Party Dynamics
To demonstrate his interest, Van Hollen noted that he has visited New Hampshire and Iowa, states historically significant in the presidential nominating process. He acknowledged that while New Hampshire remains an early nominating state, Iowa has been removed from the early window. Van Hollen also addressed the role of democratic socialists within the party, stating they have a place in the debate, though he explicitly rejected specific platform points from the Democratic Socialists of America, such as abolishing the Senate.
A Competitive 2028 Field
Van Hollen joins a growing list of Democrats who have signaled potential interest in a 2028 presidential run. Other figures who have indicated they are considering or have not ruled out a campaign include Governor Gavin Newsom, Governor Andy Beshear, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Senator Cory Booker, Senator Ruben Gallego, and former Vice President Kamala Harris.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by NBC Politics.
