Several Democratic figures are subtly positioning themselves for potential 2028 presidential campaigns, as evidenced by recent campaign finance filings. These documents reveal a concerted effort by figures like former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Governors Andy Beshear of Kentucky and Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan to enhance their national visibility and fundraising prowess.

Buttigieg has emerged as a frontrunner in early speculation, having amassed $1.6 million for his leadership PAC in the first half of the year. This initiative is part of a broader strategy among Democratic hopefuls who are using their leadership PACs not only to support other candidates but also to lay the groundwork for their own future campaigns.

Pete Giangreco, a seasoned Democratic consultant noted for his work on Barack Obama’s campaigns, emphasized the importance of these early efforts. "If you're thinking about running for president in 2028, job number one is helping Democrats win in 2026," he explained. Leadership PACs play a crucial role in this by funding travel, testing messages, and building online followings.

Digital presence and fundraising infrastructure have been significant focuses for these PACs. For instance, both Beshear and Whitmer have invested in acquiring donor lists, a critical move for expanding their outreach beyond their home states. Beshear has even made appearances in early voting states like South Carolina, highlighting his ambitions on a national stage.

California Governor Gavin Newsom is another key player, utilizing his substantial digital outreach capabilities to support candidates across the nation, thereby strengthening his ties within the Democratic Party. His leadership PAC, Campaign for Democracy, reported a hefty $4.4 million in cash on hand at the end of June after a significant investment in digital ads.

The emphasis on digital advertising is strategic, aimed at boosting name recognition and recruiting donors nationwide. Beshear's PAC, for example, spent $30,000 on digital ads that targeted not only Kentuckians but also reached a national audience. Whitmer’s PAC followed a similar strategy, balancing focus between Michigan and broader national exposure.

As these political figures maneuver through the current political landscape, their activities suggest a robust preparation for the 2028 presidential race. While they support their party's immediate goals, their sights are clearly set on higher political aspirations, leveraging every tool at their disposal to build a solid foundation for future campaigns.