Arizona’s two Democratic U.S. senators are continuing to draw attention as potential presidential contenders for the 2028 election, although neither has officially announced plans to run.
Recent interviews with Sen. Ruben Gallego and Sen. Mark Kelly suggest both are keeping the possibility open while emphasizing that any decision would come later. If either ultimately enters the race and wins, they would become the first person from Arizona to be elected president of the United States.
Gallego
Sen. Ruben Gallego addressed the possibility of a presidential campaign during an interview with KTAR’s “Outspoken with Bruce & Gaydos.”
When asked whether he was seriously considering a White House bid, Gallego responded that he was thinking about it “surface-level deeply,” suggesting the idea remains under consideration rather than an active campaign.
Gallego said one of the biggest factors would be balancing the demands of a national campaign with his responsibilities as a senator and as a father. He noted that he and his wife have three children, including a one-year-old, and are also discussing whether to expand their family.
For now, Gallego indicated that personal and family considerations remain an important part of any future decision.
Kelly
Sen. Mark Kelly also addressed questions about 2028 during an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”
Kelly said any decision about a presidential campaign would depend on the political environment following the upcoming elections and the issues facing the country.
He emphasized that his current priority is helping Democrats compete for control of the House and Senate before focusing on future presidential politics.
Kelly added that conversations about a possible campaign will continue with his family, noting there is still plenty of time before the 2028 election cycle begins.
Host Kristen Welker also referenced comments from Kelly’s wife, former U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who recently said she believes he should “go for it.”
Experience
Gallego suggested that recent political attention directed toward him reflects growing national interest in his potential as a Democratic candidate.
He pointed to his electoral success in Arizona, a competitive battleground state, and said he believes he has experience connecting with working-class voters, including Latino men.
Supporters of Gallego argue that his victories in a politically divided state could make him an attractive national candidate should he decide to run.
Kelly has also built a national profile through his military service, career as a NASA astronaut and election to the U.S. Senate, making him another Democrat frequently mentioned in early 2028 discussions.
Calendar
The Democratic presidential nomination process will operate under an updated primary calendar that differs from previous election cycles.
The revised schedule places South Carolina first, followed by Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Michigan and Virginia.
| Early Democratic Primary States | Order |
|---|---|
| South Carolina | 1 |
| Nevada | 2 |
| New Hampshire | 3 |
| New Mexico | 4 |
| Michigan | 5 |
| Virginia | 6 |
Kelly said the revised order better reflects the diversity of the Democratic Party across the country.
The presence of neighboring states early in the calendar could provide regional advantages for candidates from the Southwest, although campaign strategies will depend on the final field of candidates.
Outlook
Neither Gallego nor Kelly has formally entered the 2028 presidential race, and both continue to describe any decision as one that will come later.
For now, both senators remain focused on their current responsibilities in Congress while acknowledging that discussions about a future campaign continue.
As the next presidential cycle gradually takes shape, their names are expected to remain part of the broader conversation about potential Democratic candidates. Any official campaign decisions, however, are likely to come much closer to the start of the 2028 election season.
FAQs
Is Ruben Gallego running for president?
No. He has not announced a 2028 campaign.
Is Mark Kelly considering 2028?
Kelly said he will continue discussing it with his family.
Has Arizona elected a U.S. president?
No Arizonan has been elected president.
What is Gallego’s main concern?
Balancing family, Senate duties and a campaign.
Which state votes first in Democratic primaries?
South Carolina is scheduled to vote first.
