Pete Buttigieg Takes Lead in Early Poll for 2028 Democratic Primary

According to a recent poll conducted in New Hampshire, Pete Buttigieg is currently leading the field of potential candidates for the 2028 Democratic presidential primary. The survey, carried out by the University of New Hampshire Survey Center, provides early insights into the preferences of likely Democratic primary voters in the state.

The poll assessed the support for various potential candidates, including notable figures such as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), California Governor Gavin Newsom, former Vice President Kamala Harris, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, alongside Buttigieg.

Buttigieg Leads the Pack

In the results, 19% of respondents expressed their support for Buttigieg. Newsom and Ocasio-Cortez followed closely with 15% and 14%, respectively. Kamala Harris garnered 11% support, while Bernie Sanders and J.B. Pritzker received 8% and 6% support, respectively. All other candidates reported less than 3% support, and 10% of the respondents remained undecided.

Notably, Buttigieg also topped the favorability ratings among the candidates. He was rated favorably by 81% of respondents, surpassing even Sanders, who had a favorability rating of 72%. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez followed with a 66% favorability rating.

Insights into Buttigieg's Appeal

Further analysis of the poll data revealed interesting insights into Buttigieg's appeal among different demographics. His favorability was notably higher among individuals identifying as "Liberal" compared to those who identified as "Progressive," "Moderate," or "Socialist." Additionally, women tended to have a slightly higher approval rating for him than men. Registered Democrats, as opposed to likely Democratic voters who are not registered, also showed stronger support for Buttigieg.

The poll did not find significant variations in Buttigieg's favorability based on income, age, education level, or region within New Hampshire.

Republican Primary Insights

The survey also explored preferences among likely Republican primary voters for the 2028 election. JD Vance emerged as the frontrunner with 51% support, followed by former Governor Nikki Haley, who secured 9% of the vote.

New Hampshire's Role in the Primaries

New Hampshire has long been one of the first states to hold primary elections, historically playing a significant role in shaping the early momentum for presidential candidates. Ray Buckley, Chairman of the New Hampshire Democratic Party, has expressed intentions to position the state as the first to hold a primary in 2028. Buckley emphasized the importance of earning this position based on merit rather than perceived favoritism.

Being an early primary state often grants New Hampshire considerable influence, as candidates typically focus their campaigns on states where they can gain early traction.

Current Presidential Approval Ratings

The poll included questions about the current president's approval ratings among New Hampshire residents, revealing a split opinion. Approximately 54% expressed disapproval, while 45% approved of the president's performance. These figures align closely with national trends.

The survey was conducted between October 16 and 21, sampling 1,547 New Hampshire residents, including 602 likely Democratic primary voters and 689 likely Republican primary voters.

Stay informed with the latest in political developments and their impact on the LGBTQ+ community by subscribing to our newsletter. Receive insights and updates directly in your inbox and be the first to know about the headlines shaping communities worldwide.