Former US Ambassador Rahm Emanuel said “candour, authenticity and strength” would distinguish him from other potential Democratic presidential candidates if he decides to run in 2028. Speaking at the Texas Tribune Festival, he highlighted his experience in Congress, the Clinton and Obama administrations, as Chicago mayor and as ambassador to Japan, arguing that he would know how to act immediately as president.

Emanuel said the US faced a “tipping point” and needed to focus on an inclusive future rather than trying to restore the past. However, he currently trails leading potential Democratic contenders: Kamala Harris has about 25% support in the RealClearPolitics polling average, followed by Gavin Newsom on 14%, Pete Buttigieg on nearly 13%, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on nearly 11% and Jon Ossoff on roughly 9%.