Buttigieg Leads 2028 Dem Field in New Poll

By: Paul Goldberg, Senior Editor | JRL CHARTS – LGBT Politics USA

WASHINGTON, D.C. — (July 3, 2025) — Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has taken the lead in the crowded 2028 Democratic presidential primary, according to a new Emerson College national poll, signaling a political comeback for the former mayor turned cabinet star.

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New Poll Results Shake Up Democratic Field

The June poll shows Buttigieg leading with 16% support among likely Democratic primary voters, followed by:

Kamala Harris (13%)
Gavin Newsom (12%)
Josh Shapiro and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (7% each)
Bernie Sanders (5%)
Cory Booker (3%)

A significant 23% remain undecided, highlighting volatility in the field. The shift is dramatic compared to last November, when Harris commanded 37% in a post-election poll.

Strategy: Cultural Fluency and Media Savvy

Buttigieg’s lead stems from his evolving image: a bridge between policy wonk and cultural communicator. His recent appearances on popular podcasts like Flagrant showcased his views on:

Fatherhood & LGBTQ family life
Military service & mental health
Race, identity & inclusive leadership

His strategy appears tailored to reach millennial and Gen Z voters increasingly tuned into alternative media and authenticity over establishment pedigree.

Buttigieg Takes a Stand on Civil Rights

In June, Buttigieg made headlines after condemning the Trump administration for the violent detainment of Sen. Alex Padilla during a press conference. The incident, caught on video, drew nationwide backlash and amplified Buttigieg’s role as a leading Democratic voice in moments of national crisis.

Eyes on 2028 as Vance Dominates GOP Field

Despite declining to run for Senate or Governor in Michigan earlier this year, Buttigieg is widely believed to be building toward a 2028 presidential run — especially as JD Vance, Trump’s Vice President, dominates the Republican side.

The Emerson poll shows:

JD Vance: 46%
Marco Rubio: 12%
Ron DeSantis: 9%
RFK Jr.: 5%

Trump, barred by the Constitution from a third term, has still flirted with the idea — drawing criticism from both parties.

Voter Priorities: Economy Still Rules

When asked about the most pressing issues for 2028, voters cited:

Economy: 32%
Threats to democracy: 22%
Immigration: 14%

In a generic ballot, Democrats and Republicans are tied at 42% each, with 16% still undecided. Among independents, Democrats hold a slim edge (37% vs. 29%), but over a third remain uncommitted.

As the 2028 race heats up, Pete Buttigieg’s rising popularity reflects a new kind of political leadership — one that’s both policy-driven and culturally fluent. If these early numbers hold, Democrats may have found their next frontrunner.