Next Up with Mark Halperin

Why Pritzker Is Rising and Buttigieg Is Slipping in the "8 for '28" Dem Nomination Rankings, with Dem Party Experts

Jan 13, 2026
Mike Rogers, a former U.S. Representative and Republican Senate candidate from Michigan, discusses his motivations for re-entering politics, focusing on national security and manufacturing. Democratic strategists Karen Skelton and Patti Solis Doyle analyze the shifting dynamics of the 2028 presidential race, debating the viability of candidates like J.B. Pritzker and Pete Buttigieg. They explore AOC's potential impact if she runs and discuss Ro Khanna’s rising profile, all while reflecting on fundraising challenges and candidate strengths.
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INSIGHT

Newsom And Shapiro Are The Clear Front-Runners

  • Gavin Newsom and Josh Shapiro are materially ahead of the field because they combine fundraising, coalition ties, and national campaign skills.
  • Mark Halperin calls them 'aircraft carriers' able to carry large campaigns across states and constituencies.
INSIGHT

Money Makes Pritzker A Lasting Contender

  • J.B. Pritzker's biggest asset is his personal wealth which lets him sustain a long primary and bankroll other candidates.
  • Money positions him as a durable contender even if his public profile and messaging remain underdeveloped.
INSIGHT

Buttigieg Faces A Ceiling In Current Field

  • Pete Buttigieg faces skepticism about breaking through to a top tier despite solid organization and donor lists.
  • Halperin moved him down mainly because others (Pritzker, Harris) climbed, and sources doubt his timing and lane.
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