Pete Buttigieg Surges to Lead in New Hampshire Poll Ahead of 2028 Democratic Primary, but Challenges Remain
Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has solidified his position as the early frontrunner in the 2028 Democratic presidential primary in New Hampshire, according to a recent poll. The University of New Hampshire's Granite State Poll found that Buttigieg leads California Governor Gavin Newsom by four percentage points, with 19% support among voters.
Buttigieg's closest competitors are Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Kamala Harris, who trail behind him with 14% and 11%, respectively. Other notable Democrats in the running include Senators Bernie Sanders and Cory Booker, who garnered 8% and 6% support, respectively.
However, Buttigieg faces criticism for his time as Transportation Secretary, particularly regarding his handling of diversity, equity, and inclusion grants, which some argue may have delayed air traffic control upgrades. Additionally, concerns were raised about the safety implications of approving windmill projects near highways and railroads during his tenure.
Despite these challenges, voters remain optimistic about Buttigieg's leadership abilities, with 81% holding a favorable opinion of him, while only six percent express an unfavorable view. This strong support could give Buttigieg an edge in the primary election.
New Hampshire's first-in-the-nation status has sparked debate among party leaders and lawmakers, who have expressed concerns about the state's relatively small and non-diverse population. However, the Granite State is bound by law to host the opening presidential primary contests, ensuring that New Hampshire will continue to play a significant role in the Democratic nomination process.
On the Republican side, Vice President JD Vance has emerged as the clear frontrunner, leading Nikki Haley, Tulsi Gabbard, and Marco Rubio in the poll. Vance's massive 51% support among likely voters is significantly higher than his closest competitors, with Vice President Vance's net-favorability rating standing at +64%.
As the 2028 Democratic primary approaches, Buttigieg will need to address these criticisms and demonstrate his ability to unite the party behind a clear vision for the future.
Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has solidified his position as the early frontrunner in the 2028 Democratic presidential primary in New Hampshire, according to a recent poll. The University of New Hampshire's Granite State Poll found that Buttigieg leads California Governor Gavin Newsom by four percentage points, with 19% support among voters.
Buttigieg's closest competitors are Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Kamala Harris, who trail behind him with 14% and 11%, respectively. Other notable Democrats in the running include Senators Bernie Sanders and Cory Booker, who garnered 8% and 6% support, respectively.
However, Buttigieg faces criticism for his time as Transportation Secretary, particularly regarding his handling of diversity, equity, and inclusion grants, which some argue may have delayed air traffic control upgrades. Additionally, concerns were raised about the safety implications of approving windmill projects near highways and railroads during his tenure.
Despite these challenges, voters remain optimistic about Buttigieg's leadership abilities, with 81% holding a favorable opinion of him, while only six percent express an unfavorable view. This strong support could give Buttigieg an edge in the primary election.
New Hampshire's first-in-the-nation status has sparked debate among party leaders and lawmakers, who have expressed concerns about the state's relatively small and non-diverse population. However, the Granite State is bound by law to host the opening presidential primary contests, ensuring that New Hampshire will continue to play a significant role in the Democratic nomination process.
On the Republican side, Vice President JD Vance has emerged as the clear frontrunner, leading Nikki Haley, Tulsi Gabbard, and Marco Rubio in the poll. Vance's massive 51% support among likely voters is significantly higher than his closest competitors, with Vice President Vance's net-favorability rating standing at +64%.
As the 2028 Democratic primary approaches, Buttigieg will need to address these criticisms and demonstrate his ability to unite the party behind a clear vision for the future.