The 2028 Democratic field is taking shape early, with Newsom, Buttigieg, Ocasio-Cortez, Harris and Shapiro leading new polls and prediction markets.

The 2028 Democratic field is taking shape early, with Newsom, Buttigieg, Ocasio-Cortez, Harris and Shapiro leading new polls and prediction markets.

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Our country has suffered from rising income inequality and chronically slow growth in the living standards of low- and moderate-income Americans. This disappointing living-standards growth—which was i...

Our country has suffered from rising income inequality and chronically slow growth in the living standards of low- and moderate-income Americans. This disappointing living-standards growth—which was i...

In the wake of escalating U.S. military operations against Iran under President Donald Trump, Democrats are debating whether their 2028 presidential nominee should be a military veteran. The Politico article highlights how the ongoing Iran war has intensified calls within the party for a candidate with real combat experience to counter the Trump administration's national security team, which includes Vice President JD Vance, a Marine Iraq veteran, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Prominent voices like Rep. Joe Wilson argue that the conflict underscores the need for a 'literal fighter' rather than metaphorical ones pined for in previous cycles. Sen. Jon Ossoff has criticized the White House for treating the war 'as a video game,' pointing to flag-draped coffins and severe injuries among U.S. service members as evidence of reckless leadership. Democratic leaders, including Ranking Members Gregory Meeks, Adam Smith, Jim Himes, Betty McCollum, and Rosa DeLauro, have demanded detailed briefings on strategy, intelligence, legal basis, and long-term consequences from Trump officials. Critics from both parties question the shifting rationales—from targeting nuclear sites to regime change and dismantling Iran's military capabilities—without congressional approval. While some potential 2028 contenders like Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro denounce unilateral action yet acknowledge Iran's terrorism sponsorship, others focus on procedural lapses. The piece notes media headlines prematurely declaring 'U.S. at war with Iran,' which the White House refuted, emphasizing targeted strikes on nuclear threats rather than full-scale war. This debate reflects broader party divisions on foreign policy as midterms approach and casualties mount.