The numbers tell a stark story about the Democratic Party. A July poll from the University of New Hampshire shows a gap. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez leads with 22 percent support. Former Vice President Kamala Harris sits at just 5 percent. This data comes from likely Democratic primary voters in New Hampshire. Neither politician has announced a campaign for 2028 yet. But the silence from party leaders is loud. Democratic senators are dodging questions about backing Harris. They refuse to lock in support for their 2024 nominee. Instead, they predict chaos and division on the left.
Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut spoke to Fox News Digital. He said he backed her before. But he noted other contenders will appear this time. He made no decisions about who he would support. He kept his options open for the future. Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan offered a blunt assessment. She called the upcoming primary very messy. She said it will feature every Tom, Dick, and Harry. She believes this wide field is how it should be.
Senator Chris Coons of Delaware agreed with the delay. He said many people will run for the nomination. He wants the party to sort this out later. He pointed to the midterm elections as the priority. Harris returned to the campaign trail last week. She stood with Michigan Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed. She told crowds in Detroit she has not decided. She warned that 2028 will not matter without 2026 wins. Her message focuses on the immediate midterm vote.
Senator Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland shared her personal view. She said she loves Harris and considers her a friend. She called the former vice president well qualified. Yet she insisted the party must focus on 2026. Her goal is to win back the House and Senate. She separated personal feelings from political strategy. Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts praised the competition. He called a wide open primary democracy at its best. He said everyone who wants to run should be allowed.
The field includes potential rivals on the far left. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez identifies as a democratic socialist. She represents the progressive wing of the party. Governor Gavin Newsom of California is another contender. He said he would not run if Harris enters. Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire wants broad discussion. She believes many candidates are necessary.
The money trail in politics follows momentum. Low polling numbers often deter early funding. Donors look for viable candidates to support. The current hesitation from Democratic senators reflects that reality. They are waiting to see who gains traction. The focus remains on the 2026 midterm elections. Harris urges voters to prioritize that battle. The 2028 question hangs in the balance. The primary field remains wide open and uncertain.