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Some Democrats quietly complain that Beshear lacks charisma, or what younger voters refer to as “rizz.” Instead of dodging the criticism, Beshear addressed it head on.
“I wouldn’t underestimate me,” he said last week, pointing to his electoral record and history of defying expectations. Asked if he has any “rizz” at all, the governor joked that he might have “a little aura,” a remark that signaled both confidence and calculation.
Behind the scenes, the moves are more serious.
Beshear has reportedly begun assembling a team with national experience, quietly bringing in strategists who have worked on major federal campaigns. Those advisers are said to be helping him shape a clear argument for why Democratic primary voters should see him as the strongest general election option.
At the core of that pitch is electability.
Beshear has argued that Democratic voters will prioritize winning above all else in 2028, especially if Republicans nominate Vice President J.D. Vance, who many on the left already view as the GOP heir apparent.
“I’m a guy who has won three straight statewide elections in a Trump plus-30 state,” Beshear said, citing his victories as attorney general and governor.
That statement was widely interpreted as a subtle jab at Democrats who govern safely blue states and have never faced serious general election competition. While he did not name names, the implication was clear, especially with California Governor Gavin Newsom dominating early Democratic chatter.
Beshear has also positioned himself as an anti Trump without adopting Trump’s confrontational style.
“See, I think by the time that we reach 2028, the country is going to be tired,” Beshear later added. “And they’re going to be so tired of what Trump has done, the idea of having a Democratic version of Trump is more than that — it’s exhausting.”
“I don’t believe in responding to Trump like Trump,” Beshear said, arguing that constant outrage and political theater leave voters burned out and disengaged.
On policy, Beshear is branding himself as a pragmatic Democrat. He has vetoed legislation backed by conservatives on transgender issues, defended abortion access, and acknowledged climate change. At the same time, he has warned Democrats against going too far on regulation and energy policy.
“I’m a pro-business, pro-union Democrat,” he said, attempting to strike a balance that appeals to both corporate donors and organized labor.
The early Democratic field for 2028 is already crowded with familiar names. California Governor Newsom is widely viewed as a front runner thanks to his aggressive national profile. Former Vice President Kamala Harris remains a major figure following her 2024 run.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg continues to poll well with Democratic voters, while Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer are also frequently mentioned. Other potential contenders include Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and progressive firebrand Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
For now, Beshear insists he is not officially running for president.
But in politics, actions speak louder than disclaimers.
With national strategists lining up, messaging sharpening, and the electability argument front and center, Andy Beshear is no longer just a rumor in Democratic circles. He is clearly testing the waters, and Washington is paying attention.
