Former Vice President Kamala Harris appears to have the early edge in a potential 2028 Democratic Party primary race, with recent polling showing her at the forefront of the field.

A survey by Morning Consult indicates that Harris has secured 36% backing from Democrats and Democrat-leaning independents, as Breitbart reports.

The survey comes after Harris's previous presidential campaign, in which she ran as the Democratic Party nominee, ended in a loss to the Republican ticket of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Despite the setback, Harris maintains a strong base of support, positioning herself as the current frontrunner among those considering a run for the Democratic nomination in 2028.

Buttigieg's Aspirations Unclear

In second place in the poll is Pete Buttigieg, who garners 10% of the respondents' support. Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, and a previous presidential contender has been part of ongoing speculation about his 2028 intentions.

His recent decision to forgo a Senate campaign in Michigan has further fueled rumors regarding his next political moves.

Further down the field, a few Democrats are neck-and-neck, each commanding different facets of Democratic Party support. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a prominent voice in the progressive camp; Gavin Newsom, the governor of California; and Tim Walz, who previously stood as Harris's vice-presidential pick, each have 5% backing in the poll. Despite his previous loss in the presidential run, Walz is actively considering a future bid for the presidency.

Walz has embarked on a national town hall tour targeting districts led by the opposition, aiming to elevate his profile and influence. He described his stance on a potential run by stating, “Look, I never had an ambition to be president or vice president. I was honored to be asked. If I feel I can serve, I will. And if nationally, people are like, ‘Dude we tried you, and look how that worked out,’ I’m good with that.”

Other Candidates Gather Support

Among those with repeat poll appearances are businessman Mark Cuban and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, both capturing 4% each.

Cuban has long been a merge of business acumen and political interest, and Shapiro, known for navigating Pennsylvania's complex political landscape, could potentially leverage his growing influence on the left.

Sen. Cory Booker maintains a presence with 3%, representing a consistency in his appeal since his initial foray into Democratic Party politics.

State leadership is also featured prominently with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, and Sen. Amy Klobuchar each receiving 2%. These political figures have varying degrees of impact and are known for their policy focuses within their respective states.

Rounding off the list, both Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia and Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania show up with 1% each. Both lawmakers have been influential in their tenures, though they've yet to convert that influence into a wider presidential bid consideration.

Potential 2028 Democratic Primary Field Emerges

Harris's supporters have taken comfort in her affirmation of ongoing political involvement, even though she has been coy about her immediate intentions. She has assured those interested in her career that she is “staying in this fight,” signaling her commitment to a public service role regardless of formal announcements for 2028.

Harris's leading position suggests the Democratic Party field for 2028 is shaping up to include both seasoned contenders and potentially new faces.

The demographic diversity of the candidates reflects the broader party’s goals of appealing to a wide range of voters. For now, the Democratic Party is consolidating its candidates ahead of what promises to be a dynamic primary race.

The survey serves as an early barometer of liberal priorities and preferences, dictated in part by past experiences and emerging challenges.

The possibility of adding a new dimension to American politics lies at the heart of each contender's vision for the nation. How these aspirations align with voter expectations will ultimately shape the landscape for the upcoming presidential primary season that is still several years away.