Harris 2024 Donors Show Limited Support for Potential 2028 Bid

Many of the largest donors to Kamala Harris's 2024 presidential campaign are showing limited enthusiasm for supporting her in a potential 2028 bid, according to the Los Angeles Times. The Times contacted more than two dozen top donors to Future Forward, the main super PAC backing Harris in 2024.

Several said they do not plan to support her if she runs, while others declined to comment or did not respond. All of those contacted had given at least $1 million. One fundraiser for Harris's 2024 campaign, speaking anonymously, said starting the next cycle with the 2024 outcome would not be helpful.

The fundraiser added that there is an enormous appetite for new candidates who represent the future rather than the past. That view could affect Harris's ability to raise funds if she enters what is expected to be a crowded primary field. Conversations among some party figures center on Democrats' desire to nominate a candidate seen as having a strong chance of winning the general election.

Dick Harpootlian, a longtime South Carolina Democratic strategist, said the central question is whether there is a candidate who gives Democratic voters more confidence that they could win in 2028. Recent polling has shown support for Harris among Democrats.

Harris has drawn positive responses from audiences during recent public appearances. In April she told a New York conference audience that she "might" run for president. Last month she told the Rev. " A person familiar with her thinking said Friday that Harris remains undecided and has focused on supporting Democrats in the 2026 midterm elections.

The person said she has been meeting voters and discussing the economy and affordability. The person added that the 2028 environment would differ from the circumstances of her 2024 nomination. Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings, who contributed $1 million to Future Forward in 2024, said he hoped to support California Gov.

Gavin Newsom. Hastings described Newsom as a candidate who could motivate both the left and the center. A bundler for both Harris and former President Biden said it was too early to pick a favorite but that Harris would not be that candidate. The bundler cited concerns about her appeal to swing voters.

Rep. James E. Clyburn of South Carolina said Democrats should focus on the 2026 elections. A former Harris fundraiser said many people who like Harris do not view her as the strongest option for 2028. The attitudes among donors and party elites may differ from those of many Black and working-class voters, the consultant said.

Keneshia Grant, a Howard University political scientist, said Black voters could rally around a candidate who makes a strong case that they can win.

Harris has spoken at events in South Carolina, Michigan, Arkansas and Nevada in recent weeks. Her decision not to run for California governor in the open 2026 race was viewed by many as an indication of interest in a presidential bid. She has also promoted a book about her 2024 campaign.