WSJ’s Matthew Continetti says Democrats 'may have already lost' 2028 election
WASHINGTON, DC: A fresh political broadside is already fueling debate about the 2028 presidential race. In his latest column, Matthew Continetti argued that Democrats may be headed toward defeat before the primary season even begins.
Writing in the The Wall Street Journal under the headline “Democrats, You May Already Have Lost the 2028 Election,” Continetti painted a bleak picture of the party’s potential bench. He suggested that while the field remains fluid, many of the names floated as contenders come with political baggage that could weigh heavily in a general election.
Continetti argues Democrats may already be boxed in for 2028. Harris leads but carries baggage. Newsom, AOC, Buttigieg, and Shapiro all have vulnerabilities. A restless base, no clear reset, and a wide-open field could spell trouble early. https://t.co/vsceLOsGW5
— Steve Forbes (@SteveForbesCEO) February 18, 2026
Stephen A Smith buzz highlights unsettled 2028 Democratic field
Continetti opened with a reference to Stephen A Smith, noting recent chatter about the ESPN personality possibly exploring a presidential bid. He used that speculation to underscore what he described as a wide-open and unimpressive primary field.
“The 2028 Democratic primary is wide open and the emerging field of candidates is lackluster,” he wrote, adding that only two potential contenders currently post double-digit support in the RealClearPolitics polling average. “Both are vulnerable,” he argued.
According to Continetti, the unsettled dynamic could invite a crowded lineup similar to past unpredictable primary cycles, with lesser-known or unconventional figures testing the waters.
Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsom draw sharp criticism
Continetti reserved some of his toughest words for former Vice President Kamala Harris, He argued that Harris would again face questions tied to her tenure in the Biden administration, claiming she has yet to clearly articulate how her approach would differ from that of her former boss.
He also targeted California Governor Gavin Newsom, describing his leadership of the state as a potential liability in a national race. Continetti wrote that Newsom’s record in California could alienate swing voters despite his high-profile media appearances.
AOC, Buttigieg, Shapiro and Moore also face scrutiny
The column extended its critique to other prominent Democrats. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was described as relatively inexperienced, particularly on foreign policy. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was said to carry baggage and struggle with minority voters.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Continetti suggested, could face complications tied to intra-party tensions over Israel. Maryland Governor Wes Moore was also mentioned, with the columnist questioning his national readiness.
Warning of a crowded and unpredictable primary
In closing, Continetti compared the potential 2028 Democratic contest to the crowded early stages of the 2016 Republican primary, recalling the so-called “undercard” debates.
He warned that in today’s media environment, political outsiders can quickly gain traction. Even if high-profile speculation about figures like Smith does not materialize into a formal campaign, Continetti argued that the fluid field leaves room for surprises.
His broader message was clear: without a dominant frontrunner or a clear ideological reset, Democrats could face internal turbulence long before the general election begins.
