Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear Considers 2028 Presidential Run

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said he might run for president in 2028. Beshear made the statement during an appearance on WDRB Mornings at Churchill Downs Thursday, where he enjoyed the excitement of the Thurby event.

“If you’d asked me a couple years ago if this is something I’d consider, I probably wouldn’t have,” he said. “But I don’t want to leave a broken country to my kids. So if I’m somebody who can bring this nation together, hopefully find some common ground, it’s something I would consider.”

Beshear emphasized that his current focus is on being the best governor he can be for Kentucky. He also confirmed that he will chair the National Democratic Caucus in 2026, a role likely to boost his national presence ahead of any potential presidential bid.

Despite a challenging national landscape for Democrats following the 2024 election, Beshear’s appeal as a Democratic governor in a predominantly Republican state is notable. Winning reelection in Kentucky highlights his potential to connect with a broader voter base.

A recent Morning Consult poll revealed Beshear holds a 68 percent approval rating, making him the most approved Democratic governor and second overall in the country behind Vermont Republican Phil Scott, who has a 75 percent approval rating.

However, national polling for the 2028 Democratic primary currently places him in a lower tier. He sits at about 2.3 percent in the forecasts, trailing Kamala Harris at 27.1 percent and another unnamed candidate at 16.1 percent.

Other potential Democratic candidates are also considering a run for the presidency. Former Rhode Island governor Gina Raimondo recently expressed her willingness to explore a presidential bid, while California Governor Gavin Newsom remains non-committal.

As political dynamics evolve leading to the 2028 election, Beshear has made increased media appearances, articulating his vision for a Democratic Party focused on practical issues that matter to everyday Americans, stating, “What you have to do is get dirt on your boots,” during his recent podcast interviews.