2WAY Tonight with Mark Halperin 2028 Presidential Election Update: Who's Leading the Democrats? Is JD Vance Suddenly Vulnerable?
Dec 18, 2025
Hyma Moore, a savvy Democratic strategist known for her insightful campaign analysis, joins John Podhoretz, a conservative commentator and editor at Commentary, to dissect the evolving 2028 presidential landscape. They debate Gavin Newsom's rising star status and the potential for progressive insurgents like AOC and Bernie’s coalition to reshape the nomination process. The dialogue also explores the vulnerabilities of JD Vance within the Republican party and speculates on the implications for MAGA supporters and establishment GOP dynamics.
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Why Covering 2028 Now Matters
- Mark Halperin says 2028 coverage matters because the campaign is already underway and selection should be long and scrutinized.
- He argues a four-year nominating process is healthy for vetting candidates and building accountability.
Why Newsom Rose and Vance Weakened
- Halperin notes Gavin Newsom surged by opposing Biden on immigration and using a redistricting ballot win to build fundraising and profile.
- He also says J.D. Vance's presumed inevitability has weakened due to Ted Cruz, economic risk, donor unease, and Vance's negatives.
Parnes' Democratic Tiers
- Amie Parnes places Gavin Newsom in a solo top tier for Democrats and others like Wes Moore and Pete Buttigieg in a second tier.
- She sees no AOC in tier two and is skeptical of some governors' buzz translating nationally.