Ambitious Democrats eyeing the 2028 presidential race are shifting toward centrist positions, particularly on social issues, in an effort to broaden their appeal and recover from losses in the 2024 elections. This shift is evident as several potential candidates, including Maryland’s Wes Moore, California’s Gavin Newsom, and Rahm Emanuel, distance themselves from progressive stances on topics like reparations, transgender athletes in sports, and social policies. The trend is highlighted at events like WelcomeFest, where moderate Democrats congregate to strategize their path forward, emphasizing economic issues over cultural debates.
Wes Moore, the Black governor of Maryland, vetoed a bill that took steps toward reparations passed by his state legislature, signaling a move away from progressive social policies. Newsom has also retracted from positions he previously held on transgender athletes in women’s college and youth sports, calling it ‘unfair.’ Rahm Emanuel, a former ambassador to Japan and two-term Chicago mayor, has urged the Democratic Party to return to the center, arguing that the party should focus on ‘economic opportunity and prosperity’ rather than ‘micro-social issues.’ The former political strategist’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among moderate Democrats who feel disillusioned with the party’s current trajectory.
At WelcomeFest, the annual gathering of moderate Democrats, party leaders and strategists are exploring ways to align the party with a broader coalition of voters. The event, described as the ‘moderate Democrats’ Coachella,’ is a key meeting point for those seeking to reposition the party’s message to resonate with a wider audience. This includes panels featuring prominent figures like Rep. Elissa Slotkin and Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, who are seen as leaders of the moderate community within the party. Data guru David Shor has also been vocal in his calls for Democrats to abandon toxic positions like ‘defund the police,’ arguing that such stances have alienated many voters.