Context:

A cohort of leading Democratic figures converges in New York for the National Action Network conference as the 2028 presidential race begins to take shape. Governors Josh Shapiro, Wes Moore, JB Pritzker, and others, along with figures like Pete Buttigieg and Kamala Harris, pitch visions to African American activists while critiquing Donald Trump’s leadership. The event underscores how Black voters remain pivotal in Democratic strategy, with contenders aiming to articulate a forward-looking moral and policy agenda rather than simply opposing the Republican target. The dialogue signals a crowded, yet unsettled field where candidates prioritize coalition-building and clear contrasts ahead of the 2028 contest. Momentum hinges on translating Black voting power into durable support amid a broader national conversation on justice, equity, and governance.

Dive Deeper:

• The National Action Network’s four-day conference in New York serves as an early chamber for potential 2028 Democratic candidates to court African American activists, a key voting bloc in the party.

• Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro used the platform to criticize Donald Trump, linking his leadership to increased antisemitism, Islamophobia, and general bigotry, while stressing the need for an honorable presidency.

• Other speakers include Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Pete Buttigieg, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Rep. Ro Khanna, and Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego; Kamala Harris is also scheduled to appear, with Gavin Newsom absent due to a prior commitment.

• Analysts note there is no clear early favorite in a crowded field, though attendees highlight electability, policy vision, and a revival of civil rights-era principles as central to appealing to Black voters.

• Khanna argued that 2028 contenders should frame their campaigns around a renewed moral vision rooted in Black history, citing Frederick Douglass and Martin Luther King Jr. as inspirations for racial and economic justice.

• Shapiro portrayed Pennsylvania as a pivotal swing state and defended diversity and accountability in policing, positioning himself as a candidate who can broaden Democratic appeal while challenging Trump on policy and ethics.

• The event reflects the ongoing challenge for contenders to balance critique of the incumbent with a constructive policy platform that resonates with Black communities and sustains momentum through the midterms and beyond.