A new national survey shows Vice President JD Vance and former Vice President Kamala Harris emerging as early front-runners for their respective parties in the 2028 presidential race.
The Harvard/Harris poll surveyed 2,745 registered voters between April 23 and April 26, 2026, asking Democrats and Republicans to identify their preferred candidates for the next presidential election. The survey carries a margin of error of plus or minus 1.87 percentage points.
Among the broader electorate, 67 percent of respondents said they have already given thought to the 2028 race, with 32 percent indicating they have considered it “a lot.”
Democratic Field Takes Shape
Harris commands substantial support among Democratic voters, with 50 percent saying they would back her as the party’s nominee. She has not formally announced a candidacy but has signaled openness to another bid, telling supporters, “I might, I might. I’m thinking about it.”
Other Democratic contenders trail significantly in the survey. California Governor Gavin Newsom received 22 percent support, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro garnered nine percent, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez drew eight percent.
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker rounded out the top tier of Democratic preferences at six percent.
Republican Competition Coalesces Around Vance
Vance leads the Republican field with 48 percent support, nearly three times higher than his closest competitor. The vice president has built momentum within conservative circles, drawing strong backing at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest event in December.
Donald Trump Jr. placed second among Republicans with 18 percent, followed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio at 16 percent. Former Governor Ron DeSantis received nine percent support, while commentator Tucker Carlson garnered four percent.
Former President Donald Trump has publicly praised potential Republican candidates, remarking that Vance and Rubio “could form a formidable ticket.” Trump also suggested the next Republican nominee is likely already serving within his administration.
What This Means
The early polling reflects how both parties are beginning to consolidate around potential standard-bearers years before the 2028 general election. The results underscore continued voter engagement with the nation’s political future following the 2024 election cycle.
This story has been updated. CNN’s politics team contributed to this report.