Democrats' 2028 presidential auditions begin in Denver
Denver hosts a high-profile gathering of Democratic leaders to shape the 2028 messaging and strategy, aiming to convert midterm momentum into lasting power while debating whether to press progressive policies or move toward the center. Key figures, including Gov.-elect Phil Weiser, Sen. Michael Bennet, Rep. Joe Neguse, and Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, will test ideas and meet with national leaders as an audition for the cycle. The focus is on translating wins into national influence, with Denver presenting models on homelessness, housing, and public safety and seeking federal support. The outcome could set the tone for how the party frames its goals and priorities heading into 2028.
Dive Deeper:
Organizers, led by Majority Democrats, have assembled a lineup of prominent Democrat power players to test and refine the party’s 2028 message in the wake of recent midterm victories. Attendees include Colorado figures such as Gov.-elect Phil Weiser, U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse, and Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, with private meetings planned with national leaders.
Johnston will deliver opening and closing remarks and is positioning Denver as a national model on housing, homelessness, and public safety, while pressing for more federal money to support affordable housing and his universal child care plan.
The event serves as a forum to dissect what worked and what didn’t in the midterms, translating that insight into a durable political approach aimed at expanding party influence beyond Colorado.
Within the party, there is debate over whether to amp up progressive policies or tilt toward centrist governance for the 2028 cycle, with Colorado Democrats stressing proven local results as a foundation for national strategy.
Johnston frames Colorado’s majority as strengthened by leading with certain values, signaling a belief that progressive positioning can bolster the party’s appeal rather than dilute it.
The gathering is viewed as an audition for 2028, with organizers hoping to demonstrate that the cycle can start and end in Denver as a way to anchor a national effort.