Actor George Clooney has focused on three Democratic figures as potential candidates for the 2028 presidential election. He intends to hold off on endorsing anyone until after the upcoming midterm elections. This decision follows his active involvement in the 2024 presidential election, where Clooney influenced President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race.
Among the Democrats Clooney has singled out, Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker are seeking reelection this year, while Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear is not up for election. Clooney’s remarks about these candidates came during The Future of Creativity event in Venice, where he expressed excitement about Ossoff, emphasizing the significance of new, youthful voices in the political arena.
Newsweek has reached out to representatives for Clooney, Ossoff, Pritzker, and Beshear for their comments on Clooney’s statements. Early polling and prediction markets show varied levels of support for these potential nominees. Vice President Kamala Harris is currently the Democratic favorite, according to recent polls, followed by figures like California Governor Gavin Newsom and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Of Clooney’s choices, Ossoff enjoys a better standing in national presidential polling compared to Beshear and Pritzker. He faces Mike Collins in the upcoming Georgia Senate election, with favorable polling numbers giving him an edge over his Republican opponent. Ossoff’s reelection could significantly impact discussions about the Democratic Party’s future.
Meanwhile, Pritzker seeks another term as Illinois Governor, although public polling for his reelection race remains scarce. Pritzker’s presidential aspirations have garnered modest national polling support.
Beshear does not face reelection challenges this year but polls show him trailing behind fellow Democrats in potential 2028 presidential hopes. His belief in the merit of governors becoming President underscores his pitch for executive experience.
The early polling landscape for the 2028 presidential race is volatile, emphasizing recognition and current voter preferences rather than offering reliable predictions. Clooney has kept his endorsements open, indicating that outcomes of the midterms could solidify the party’s choices for the future.
For Ossoff and Pritzker, the November 3 election provides a pivotal moment to showcase political prowess before donor and voter decisions shape the 2028 Democratic field further.