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Kamala Harris’s ship has sailed
The article argues that the midterm results have strengthened Democrats and prompted early speculation about the 2028 presidential race. With Donald Trump due to leave office at the end of his second term, the writer says politicians in both parties may be more willing to consider running.
It contrasts Trump’s past victories over Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Kamala Harris in 2024 with the prospect of a race in which he cannot run again. The excerpt offers no polling, candidate list or further evidence about Harris’s prospects; its claim that her political opportunity has passed is the author’s opinion.
In short
- Midterm results have energised Democrats.
- The article looks ahead to the 2028 field.
- It argues Harris’s chances have faded.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Harris’s defeats in two presidential elections, including one against Trump, may make it harder for her to persuade voters and party colleagues that she is the strongest candidate for a future campaign. Democrats may also want to turn to newer leaders who can offer a fresh direction and avoid reopening divisions over past campaigns.
The case against
Past defeats do not settle a candidate’s future prospects, particularly in a race without Trump, and Harris could draw on her national profile, experience and existing support within the party. With the 2028 field and political conditions still uncertain, declaring her opportunity over now may rule her out before voters and potential rivals have had a chance to weigh their options.
Explained simply
US midterm elections choose members of Congress and can shift the balance of power between the two parties. Their results often prompt discussion about who might run for president next, even though the next election is still some way off.
Donald Trump won the presidency in 2016 and 2024, defeating Hillary Clinton and Kamala Harris respectively. Under the US Constitution, he cannot seek a third elected term, so attention may turn to other possible candidates from both parties.
Harris is a Democrat who served as vice-president under Joe Biden and ran for president in 2024. Whether she will run again, or how strong her chances might be, is not established by the information reported here.