Former Vice President Kamala Harris is favored by young Democrats in a hypothetical 2028 presidential race, according to a recent poll. The poll showed Harris receiving 28.7% of support from Democratic respondents aged 18 to 34. This is nearly double the 14.9% who chose former First Lady Michelle Obama, and more than twice the 11.7% who backed Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
A total of 1,075 American adults aged 18-34 participated in the Axios-Generation Lab poll conducted between July 29 and August 4. Despite the popularity of these figures, none have announced intentions to run for the presidency in 2028.
The Political Landscape Among Young Independents
Among independents, Obama received 11.4% of the hypothetical vote, while Ocasio-Cortez garnered 9.2%. Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders followed with 7.4%. In contrast, young Republicans showed a strong preference for Vice President JD Vance, with 31.5% support. Donald Trump Jr. came next at 10.7%, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio received 9.7%.
Discontent Among Younger Americans
“Thumbs-down on everything,” describes Cyrus Beschloss, CEO of Generation Lab, on the mood of young Americans.
The poll reveals broad dissatisfaction, as 66% disapprove of President Donald Trump’s job performance. Furthermore, 96% expressed concerns about the rising costs of rent, groceries, gas, or utilities.
Democrats comprised 37% of participants, with Republicans at 26% and independents at 29%. The poll’s margin of error stands at +/- 3.01 percentage points.
The Significance of Harris’ Support
Harris’ support surpasses that for both Obama and Ocasio-Cortez combined. Her backing, however, does not constitute a majority, highlighting the fluidity of the Democratic field. Of the three, Harris has held national office and has campaigned for the presidency.
Her decision not to pursue the California governorship in 2026 leaves the door open for another presidential bid. Obama, despite her high standing and appeal among independents, has consistently declined interest in political office.
The Progressive Profile of AOC
Representative Ocasio-Cortez has risen as a prominent figure among progressives, targeting issues like climate change and economic inequality. She trails Harris significantly among young Democrats and slightly behind Obama among independents.
Challenges Faced by Trump and Republicans
The poll indicates substantial opposition to Trump, with 66% disapproving his job performance. Only 34% approved of his actions as president.
When asked about solutions to reduce the cost of living, respondents favored neither party, with 36% distrusting both. Republicans were chosen by 32%, while Democrats received 26% of support.
The dissatisfaction reflects economic concerns rather than a clear shift toward Democrats. History has shown that polls may underestimate Trump’s appeal, who has surpassed expectations in past campaigns.
Newsweek sought comments from the White House after the poll results. In a June statement responding to Trump’s low ratings, spokesperson Davis Ingle emphasized the importance of the upcoming 2024 election, referring to it as “the ultimate poll.”