Radical dumocrats call the shots these days.
California Congressman Ro Khanna is reportedly laying the groundwork for a possible 2028 presidential campaign, with assistance from one of the Democratic Party's most influential strategists: former Biden Chief of Staff Ron Klain.
According to a report from Politico Playbook, Klain has been privately advising Khanna as the California Democrat considers a run for the White House following the 2026 midterm elections.
Khanna first signaled his interest earlier this year while speaking at the National Action Network Conference hosted by Rev. Al Sharpton. During that appearance, he said he would consider seeking the presidency after the midterm cycle concludes.
The involvement of Klain is noteworthy given his prominent role in Democratic politics over the past two decades. Before serving as President Joe Biden's chief of staff, Klain held senior positions in multiple Democratic administrations, including serving as White House Ebola Response Coordinator during the Obama administration.
After leaving government service, Klain became chief legal officer at Airbnb. However, reports indicate he has remained deeply involved in Democratic political circles, using his personal time to advise a number of high-profile candidates and elected officials.
Among those reportedly receiving Klain's guidance are New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey, California gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra, and congressional candidate Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of President John F. Kennedy.
The report suggests that Klain's post-White House political activities are significantly more extensive than previously known, reinforcing his reputation as one of the Democratic Party's most connected behind-the-scenes operators.
For conservatives, Khanna's potential presidential ambitions raise questions about the future direction of the Democratic Party. The congressman has frequently aligned himself with progressive causes and has taken positions that have drawn criticism from Republicans.
Khanna recently called for dismantling Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a position that remains highly controversial among voters concerned about border security and immigration enforcement. He has also opposed legislation such as the Laken Riley Act, which Republicans have championed as part of broader efforts to strengthen immigration enforcement.
Klain himself has long been viewed as a key ally of the Democratic Party's progressive wing. During Biden's presidency, many activists regarded him as an important conduit between left-wing advocacy groups and the White House.
His influence became particularly apparent as progressive organizations increasingly praised his role in shaping administration priorities. Political observers often viewed Klain as one of the most effective power brokers inside the Biden administration, helping navigate tensions between moderate Democrats and the party's activist base.
Now, with Biden out of office and attention turning toward the next generation of Democratic leadership, figures such as Khanna are beginning to position themselves for a potentially crowded 2028 primary field.
Whether Khanna ultimately launches a presidential campaign remains uncertain. However, the involvement of a seasoned strategist like Klain suggests that serious conversations are already taking place behind the scenes.
After all, in Washington, nobody assembles a presidential-caliber team years in advance just for the exercise. As Democrats begin looking toward their post-Biden future, Khanna appears determined to ensure his name is part of that conversation. And of donations.
With the 2028 race still years away, early maneuvering is already underway, and the battle for the Democratic Party's future may be starting sooner than many expected.
