Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff made it clear Wednesday that he has no intention of seeking the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028, instead pressing his party to keep its attention on the upcoming midterm contests.
“I have zero interest in running for president in 2028. I love serving the state of Georgia. I’ve got two young daughters,” Ossoff said during an appearance on MS NOW’s “The Briefing” with host Jen Psaki.
The first-term Democrat, who narrowly won his seat in 2021, warned colleagues against engaging in what he called “fantasy football” over the next presidential cycle. He argued that such speculation “risks distracting us from the urgent task at hand.”
“If we do not restore checks and balances in these midterm elections, I don’t know that we have a free and fair presidential election in 2028. So, let’s keep our eyes on the ball, folks,” Ossoff said.
His remarks come as potential Democratic contenders for 2028 begin to surface. Strategists have floated Maryland Governor Wes Moore, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker as possible candidates. Newsom, in particular, has faced scrutiny over welfare fraud scandals that could complicate his national ambitions.
Ossoff, however, stressed that the party’s immediate priority should be winning in November. “We need to win decisively in Georgia, in every battleground state, and in every competitive U.S. House district this fall,” he said. “It’s a collective effort. All of us need to be taking action in defense of our republic.”
The Georgia senator is himself in the midst of a tough reelection fight. Though his Republican opponent will not be determined until next month’s primary, Ossoff is already building a formidable war chest. Federal Election Commission records show he has over $31 million cash on hand for what is expected to be a closely watched contest.
Political handicappers have taken note of his strength. The Cook Political Report recently shifted its rating of Ossoff’s race from “Toss Up” to “Lean Democratic,” a sign that the incumbent may have a slight edge heading into the general election.
Ossoff’s insistence on midterm focus reflects a broader concern among Democrats that internal jockeying for 2028 could undermine the party’s ability to hold the line against Republican gains. With control of Congress and the fate of democratic institutions on the line, he argues there is no room for distraction.
