2028 Democratic Nominee Odds: Who Will Be the Next Presidential Candidate?
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Frank Ammirante - March 7, 2026
Even though the 2028 U.S. presidential election is still two years away, U.S. political betting markets are already heating up. Savvy bettors know it’s never too early to bet on the next president. Right now, one of the most exciting opportunities lies in the race for the Democratic nomination.
At BookMakers Review, we’ve analyzed the latest Democratic nominee betting odds from one of the top offshore sportsbooks, where fans of political wagering can already bet on the next Democratic nominee to lead the party into 2028. From ambitious governors and influential senators to rising progressive stars, the early betting lines feature a compelling mix of frontrunners and long shots.
Below, you’ll find the current odds, detailed candidate breakdowns, and expert insights on where the best early value lies in U.S. political betting, long before campaign season officially kicks off.
See who’s favored to lead the Democratic Party in the 2028 U.S. presidential election and find early betting value before the primaries begin.
Political Betting Insights: Trends to Watch
With no clear frontrunner emerging, the race to lead the Democratic Party is wide open, providing early opportunities to bet on the next Democratic nominee and potentially lock in strong value before the field takes shape. The lineup includes established leaders like California Governor Gavin Newsom, progressives such as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, as well as a host of governors and senators hoping to capture national attention.
Analysts expect early debates, fundraising reports, and endorsements to play a crucial role in defining the odds. As we approach 2026, the Democratic primary picture is evolving fast, offering some of the most intriguing early action for anyone looking to bet on the next president.
How Artificial Intelligence Could Reshape the 2028 Democratic Race
Artificial intelligence is becoming a bigger factor in U.S. politics, and that could matter in the market for the next Democratic nominee. The biggest AI-related risk is not that AI will pick the nominee, but that it will reshape how candidates build momentum, control narratives, and defend themselves online. Researchers and policy groups tracking the 2026 cycle say AI is already affecting elections through deepfakes, synthetic campaign content, micro-targeted messaging, and faster-response digital war rooms.
For bettors, that matters because the Democratic field is still fluid. Candidates with strong online followings, fast fundraising operations, and media-savvy teams could benefit the most from AI-driven campaign tools. At the same time, high-profile contenders may face more exposure to AI-generated misinformation, especially manipulated audio and video designed to go viral before fact-checkers can catch up. State lawmakers have already been responding to that threat, with multiple states enacting or advancing rules around AI-generated election content and disclosure.
There is also a policy angle worth watching. AI itself is becoming a more visible political issue, from regulation of deepfakes to fights over datacenters, energy use, and Big Tech influence in Democratic politics. That means candidates who can speak credibly about AI regulation, jobs, innovation, and election integrity could gain an edge as the 2028 race develops. Recent 2026 political coverage has already shown AI emerging as both a campaign issue and a source of outside political spending.
From a betting perspective, AI adds another layer of volatility to this market. A candidate with strong digital reach could rise faster than expected, while a poorly timed AI-driven controversy could damage a frontrunner overnight. That makes monitoring media strength, online engagement, campaign tech sophistication, and AI-related policy positioning increasingly important when betting on the Democratic nominee.
Democratic Nominee Betting Odds: Early Favorites & Predictions
Below, you’ll find the top 10 candidates in latest odds for who will win the Democratic nomination, courtesy of BetOnline. This gives bettors an early look at where the U.S. political betting markets stand. Find out who offers the best value if you’re ready to bet on the next president or bet on the next Democratic nominee.
| Candidate | Odds |
|---|---|
| Gavin Newsom | +185 |
| Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez | +450 |
| Josh Shapiro | +1100 |
| J.B. Pritzker | +1100 |
| Wes Moore | +1600 |
| Kamala Harris | +1600 |
| Gretchen Whitmer | +1800 |
| Andy Beshear | +1800 |
| Pete Buttigieg | +1800 |
| Jon Ossoff | +2000 |
Gavin Newsom (+185)
The California governor remains the frontrunner in most markets. With his national profile, strong fundraising network, and executive experience, Newsom is seen as the establishment favorite. His biggest challenge? Avoiding the perception of being too West Coast–centric in a party that values broad geographic appeal. At +185, the odds reflect both his viability and the competition nipping at his heels. According to the L.A. Times, Newsom has already confirmed his intentions to run for president.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (+450)
The congresswoman from New York has energized the progressive wing, drawing small-dollar donations and social media engagement at record pace. However, skepticism remains about her national electability and age. Still, at +450, AOC offers solid value for bettors banking on a grassroots surge.
Josh Shapiro (+1100)
The Pennsylvania governor has quietly built a reputation as a pragmatic problem-solver. With a key swing-state pedigree and bipartisan appeal, Shapiro could emerge as a consensus candidate if the race splinters. Bettors looking for an underdog with real momentum should take note of his +1100 line.
J.B. Pritzker (+1100)
Illinois Governor Pritzker has both the money and political machine to mount a serious campaign. His message of economic populism and midwestern pragmatism could resonate nationally, but whether he’ll ignite enough excitement outside his home state remains to be seen.
Wes Moore (+1600)
Maryland’s governor and political newcomer, Moore has impressed with his charisma and compelling life story. If he can convert media attention into a national movement, +1600 could look like a steal. His path, though, depends on strong early performances and broad appeal beyond the East Coast.
Kamala Harris (+1600)
Once the heir apparent, the former vice president’s political fortunes have seesawed. While her name recognition and experience make her a perennial contender, public perception and past campaign struggles weigh her odds down. Still, at +1600, some bettors see value in a comeback narrative if she can reset her image in the coming months.
Gretchen Whitmer (+1800)
Michigan’s governor has earned praise for her leadership and steady demeanor, positioning her as a potential “unity” choice. Whitmer’s challenge is whether she wants to run, and whether voters view her as a national figure. At +1800, she’s an intriguing sleeper pick if the race fractures.
Andy Beshear (+1800)
Kentucky’s Democratic governor remains one of the few bright spots for the party in deep-red America. His re-election in a conservative state turned heads, but national exposure remains limited. If he catches fire in the early debates, +1800 could look generous.
Pete Buttigieg (+1800)
The transportation secretary and former presidential candidate is no stranger to the spotlight. His debate skills and moderate tone keep him relevant, offering some value on these odds. Bettors intrigued by his staying power might sprinkle on Buttigieg here.
Jon Ossoff (+2000)
The Georgia senator’s youth and communication skills have made him a rising Democratic star. However, without a clear campaign infrastructure, he remains a longshot at +2000. Still, in a volatile race, longshots have a way of surprising.
Longshots for Democratic Nominee
For those who like longshot odds and bigger surprises, BetOnline lists several celebrity and non-traditional contenders:
- Michelle Obama (+3000)
- Stephen A. Smith (+4000)
- Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson (+5000)
While none have announced campaigns, their cultural influence makes them fun speculative picks. Michelle Obama remains a fantasy candidate for many Democrats, while media personality Stephen A. Smith and actor Dwayne Johnson embody the entertainment-politics crossover bettors love to imagine.
How to Bet on the Democratic Nominee at BetOnline
Wagering on political outcomes is simple and fast. Here’s how to place your bet:
- Sign up at BetOnline.
- Head to the Politics section of the sportsbook.
- Select “2028 Democratic Nominee.”
- Pick your candidate and enter your wager.
- Confirm your bet slip to lock in your pick.
Read our BetOnline hands-on review to learn more about the platform.
Betting Insights and Timeline
Right now in March of 2026, Newsom leads as the safe pick, but Ocasio-Cortez, Shapiro, and Whitmer offer compelling value plays depending on how the race evolves. Longshots like Wes Moore and Beshear could also rise fast if they perform well early.
Final Verdict
The race for the Democratic nomination is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and unpredictable contests in recent memory. With 2028 far away, bettors in the U.S. political betting market have plenty of time to analyze the field and find early value.
Right now, Gavin Newsom stands out as the best bet to secure the nomination. His ability to navigate major policy challenges while keeping a high profile on the national stage has made him a reliable pick for those who believe in establishment stability and proven leadership.
For bettors looking for more upside, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Josh Shapiro represent intriguing alternatives, each capable of generating enthusiasm among different wings of the party.
Don’t miss your chance to bet on the next Democratic nominee, or even bet on the next president, at BetOnline, before the political landscape shifts again and the best value disappears.
